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 replaces the previous language that simply stated the offense "constitutes" a felony, now stating it "is" a Class A or Class B felony. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision that prohibits the suspension or alteration of the minimum confinement period ordered by the court.

The bill also makes several deletions and insertions regarding probation eligibility and conditions. It specifies that probation may not be granted for sex offenses involving children classified as Class A or Class B felonies, while allowing probation for other offenses. The language regarding the defendant's obligations during probation has been streamlined, removing unnecessary phrasing. Furthermore, it clarifies that defendants serving the minimum confinement period are not eligible for parole or sentence deductions under the Alabama Correctional Incentive Time Act during that time. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2024.

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