The bill amends Section 15-18-8 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to revise the sentencing procedures for offenders convicted of certain felonies. Specifically, it clarifies that when a defendant is convicted of a Class A or Class B felony and receives a sentence of 20 to 30 years, the judge may order a minimum confinement period of 10 years, with the remainder of the sentence suspended and the defendant placed on probation. This amendment replaces the previous language that referred to such offenses as "constituting" a felony, now simply stating they "are" Class A or Class B felonies. Additionally, the bill specifies that the court shall not suspend or alter the minimum period of confinement ordered for these cases.

Furthermore, the bill includes several deletions and insertions to streamline the language regarding probation and the conditions that may be imposed on defendants. For instance, it removes the phrase "To" before various obligations such as paying fines and making restitution, simplifying the requirements. The bill also clarifies that probation may not be granted for sex offenses involving children classified as Class A or Class B felonies. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 15-18-8
Engrossed: 15-18-8