This bill proposes to amend current statutes regarding sentencing for individuals convicted of a class 2 felony for child sex trafficking. Under the current law, a person convicted of this felony is sentenced to natural life imprisonment without the possibility of release. The bill updates this by specifying that such a sentence only applies if the offender was at least 18 years old at the time of the offense. This change is intended to ensure that juveniles are not subjected to life sentences, thereby preserving their rights under the Eighth Amendment of the United States Constitution.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for its enactment, requiring an affirmative vote of at least three-fourths of the members of each house of the legislature for it to take effect. It also makes technical changes and includes a legislative intent clause. Overall, the bill aims to clarify the age requirement for life sentences in child sex trafficking cases while ensuring that juvenile defendants are treated in accordance with constitutional protections.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-720
House Engrossed Version: 13-720
Chaptered Version: 13-720