Senate Bill No. 152, introduced by Senator Mizell, seeks to amend existing laws concerning the sentencing of defendants who are victims of domestic abuse, sexual assault, or human trafficking. The bill establishes an affirmative defense for these defendants, allowing them to argue that their criminal conduct was justifiable due to their victimization. It permits the introduction of expert testimony on the effects of domestic violence and outlines specific criteria for eligibility, including that the defendant is not charged with a violent crime or sex offense and that there is a clear causal connection between their victimization and the offense committed. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the admissibility of evidence related to the defendant's victimization and requires defendants to notify the prosecution if they intend to raise this defense.

Moreover, the bill specifies that it applies only in cases where the perpetrator of the offenses against the defendant was also a principal in the instant offense, regardless of whether they were arrested or charged. It outlines criteria for reducing sentences, allowing a life sentence with hard labor to be reduced to a minimum of 10 years and a maximum of 50 years, while maintaining the death sentence unchanged. The legislation also allows for the introduction of evidence regarding the defendant's victimization from the alleged perpetrator or relevant individuals, provided notice is given beforehand. Overall, the bill aims to ensure that the unique circumstances of victims are considered in sentencing decisions, potentially leading to more equitable outcomes, and is set to take effect on August 1, 2025.