The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend the sentencing provisions for second degree murder in Arizona. Under current law, a person convicted of second degree murder faces a presumptive sentence of 16 calendar years, which would be increased to 20 calendar years for those with no prior convictions. For individuals with prior convictions of second degree murder or certain felonies, the current presumptive sentence of 20 calendar years would be raised to 25 calendar years. Additionally, the bill would make technical changes to the language of the statute, replacing the phrase as defined by with pursuant to in relevant sections. The overall effect of these changes would be to impose longer presumptive sentences for second degree murder, thereby increasing the penalties for offenders based on their criminal history.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 13-710
Senate Engrossed Version: 13-710