Missouri Advances ‘Bentley’s Law’ Requiring Child Support from Drunk Drivers
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri lawmakers are considering a bill, known as “Bentley’s Law,” that would require individuals convicted of killing a parent although driving under the influence to provide financial support for the surviving children. The legislation gained momentum this week with hearings in both the Missouri Senate and House.
The Tragedy Behind the Bill
The push for Bentley’s Law stems from a devastating crash in April 2021 in Byrnes Mill, Missouri. Cordell Williams, 30, his fiancée Lacey Newton, 25, and their 4-month-old son, Cordell Williams II, were killed when their vehicle was struck by another driver on Highway 30 . The driver, David G. Thurby, was later convicted of three counts of second-degree involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to eight years in prison .
How Bentley’s Law Would Work
Senate Bill 1135 and House Bill 1910, the legislative vehicles for Bentley’s Law, would mandate child support payments from convicted drunk drivers. Payments would begin one year after the offender’s release from prison and continue until the child reaches 18 or 21, depending on whether the child is still pursuing secondary education .
A Grandmother’s Advocacy
Cecilia Williams, the grandmother raising her surviving grandsons, Bentley and Mason, has been a vocal advocate for the bill. She testified before the legislature, emphasizing the financial and emotional hardships faced by families who lose parents in drunk driving accidents . Williams stated that the law could prevent other children from being placed in foster care due to financial instability following such tragedies .
Law Enforcement Support
The bill has garnered support from law enforcement officials, including Sgt. Cody Unfress of the Byrnes Mill Police Department, who was the first officer on the scene of the 2021 crash . Sgt. Unfress, who was orphaned by a drunk driver himself as a child, spoke passionately about the lasting impact of such incidents .
Legislative Progress and Outlook
State Sen. Mike Henderson has carried the bill for several years, and there is currently no reported opposition to the measure . The family and lawmakers are hopeful that Bentley’s Law will be passed this year, providing a measure of justice and financial support for children who have lost parents to drunk drivers.