This bill amends existing laws regarding parole eligibility for individuals under the age of 20 who are convicted of class A felonies, specifically focusing on first-degree murder and other class A felonies. The key change is the increase of the age limit from 18 years to 20 years for defendants who committed these offenses. As a result, individuals under the age of 20 at the time of their offense will be subject to the same sentencing provisions as those currently applicable to individuals under 18.

Under the revised law, defendants convicted of first-degree murder will face life sentences with varying possibilities for parole, depending on the specifics of their case. Similarly, those convicted of other class A felonies will also be subject to life sentences with potential parole options. The bill aims to ensure that younger offenders, specifically those aged 18 to 20, are treated consistently within the legal framework regarding serious crimes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 902.1, 707.2