If enacted, this bill would amend Arizona Revised Statutes section 13-710 to increase the presumptive prison sentences for individuals convicted of second degree murder. Under current law, the presumptive sentence for a person with no prior convictions is 16 calendar years, which would be increased to 20 calendar years. For those with prior convictions of second degree murder or certain felonies, the sentence would rise from 20 calendar years to 25 calendar years.
Additionally, the bill makes technical changes to the language of the statute, replacing outdated terms and clarifying the conditions under which these sentences apply. The changes aim to ensure that the sentencing framework reflects the seriousness of second degree murder offenses and the criminal history of the offenders. The bill would take effect on the general effective date upon passage.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 13-710