The bill amends Section 902.8 of the Iowa Code to redefine the criteria for classifying habitual offenders and establishes new penalties for such individuals. It introduces a two-tier system of offenses: Level one offenses, which include serious felonies and aggravated misdemeanors related to sexual abuse, domestic abuse, and organized retail theft, are assigned one point for habitual offender status. Level two offenses, which encompass other aggravated misdemeanors and serious misdemeanors involving assault and criminal mischief, are assigned half a point. A person is classified as a habitual offender if they accumulate three or more points from these offenses, with the court only considering convictions within the last twenty years.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that individuals sentenced as habitual offenders must serve a minimum of twenty years before being eligible for parole or work release, unless the current level one offense carries a higher minimum sentence. It also modifies Section 902.9 to clarify that habitual offenders will be sentenced to confinement as outlined in the newly established Section 902.8, replacing the previous maximum confinement period of fifteen years. This legislation aims to strengthen penalties for repeat offenders and enhance public safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 902.8, 708.2A
Reprinted: 902.8, 708.2A