The proposed bill amends Chapter 15, Title 18 of the Idaho Code to introduce new sections that specifically address aggravated lewd conduct involving minors. It establishes Section 18-1508B, defining aggravated lewd conduct with a minor under sixteen, and Section 18-1508C, which focuses on minors aged twelve or under. These sections outline the acts constituting the crime and set mandatory minimum sentences, including a potential life sentence for aggravated lewd conduct with a child twelve or under, depending on aggravating factors. Additionally, Section 18-1508D allows for severe penalties, including the death penalty, for those convicted of aggravated lewd conduct with a minor child twelve or under, contingent upon a notice of intent to seek the death penalty being filed.

The bill also introduces Section 18-1508E, which states that certain sex offenders sentenced to a fixed minimum term will not be eligible for parole, discharge, or sentence reductions during their confinement. It further modifies existing sections to incorporate these new offenses and their penalties, enhancing legal repercussions for crimes against minors. The bill outlines specific statutory aggravating circumstances that must be proven for both first-degree murder and aggravated lewd conduct, requiring at least three aggravating circumstances for the latter. A special sentencing proceeding is mandated when a notice of intent to seek the death penalty is filed, and the act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with a severability clause ensuring the enforceability of remaining provisions if any part is invalidated.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 18-4004A, 18-8304, 19-2515