A proposed law in Tennessee, inspired by a grieving grandmother, seeks to mandate that individuals convicted of causing fatal accidents while driving under the influence must pay child support for any surviving children left behind. This initiative, known as Bentley’s Law, was born from the tragic experience of a woman named Mary Davis, who is now raising her grandchildren after losing her son and his family in a drunk driving incident.
In April 2021, an alleged intoxicated driver collided with the vehicle of Davis’s son, resulting in the deaths of her son, his partner, and their infant child. The driver reportedly had a blood alcohol level significantly above the legal limit and had acknowledged consuming multiple alcoholic beverages prior to the crash. While he survived with minor injuries, the consequences for Davis’s family were devastating.
Determined to seek justice and promote accountability, Davis proposed Bentley’s Law, which recently passed the Tennessee House with unanimous support. The legislation stipulates that anyone found guilty of causing the death of a parent due to drunk driving would be required to pay child support for the deceased’s children until they reach 18 years of age or graduate from high school.
“This law is about ensuring financial responsibility from those who make reckless choices,” Davis stated, emphasizing the need for accountability for the families affected by such tragedies. The law recognizes the profound impact of drunk driving on entire families, not just the victims.
While Bentley’s Law awaits approval from the Senate and the Governor, there are concerns about the practicality of enforcing child support payments from offenders, many of whom may lack the financial means to fulfill such obligations. However, the bill includes a provision requiring offenders to pay child support even after serving their time, ensuring they remain responsible for their actions.
Davis’s efforts extend beyond her family’s situation; she hopes this law will deter potential drunk drivers from getting behind the wheel. “It won’t bring my loved ones back, but it may save other families from similar heartache,” she expressed.
Bentley’s Law is also being considered in other states, showing a growing movement toward holding drunk drivers accountable for their actions. For those wishing to support Davis and her grandchildren, a GoFundMe has been established.
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- Tennessee drunk driving laws
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In summary, Bentley’s Law seeks to require drunk drivers who cause fatalities to provide financial support for the children of their victims. This initiative, driven by the tragic loss experienced by Mary Davis, aims to bring justice and accountability to families impacted by such devastating incidents.
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