The bill aims to enhance public safety by increasing criminal liability for certain crimes that result in felony murder and modifying the liability for those convicted of aiding and abetting felony murder. Key amendments include the addition of new legal language that specifies a person cannot be held criminally liable for felony murder unless they intentionally aided or conspired with the intent to cause death. This includes specific clauses that outline the conditions under which a person may be held liable, such as being a major participant in the underlying felony or using a deadly weapon. The bill also introduces a new subdivision that states a person shall not be held liable for unintentional murder unless their actions present a special danger to human life based on the circumstances of the felony committed.

Additionally, the bill revives the Task Force on Aiding and Abetting Felony Murder, which will focus on issues related to felony murder and aiding and abetting liability. The task force is required to submit a report with findings and recommendations by February 1, 2026, and will expire shortly thereafter. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2024, applying to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.19