This bill amends sections 28-105.02 and 29-2204 of the Nebraska Revised Statutes to modify the penalties for certain felonies committed by individuals under the age of eighteen. Specifically, it establishes new sentencing guidelines for various classes of felonies, including Class IA, IB, IC, ID, II, and IIA. For instance, the maximum sentence for a Class IA felony is set at fifty years with a minimum of twenty years, while a Class IIA felony has a maximum of ten years with no minimum imprisonment required. The bill also emphasizes that courts must consider mitigating factors when determining sentences for these offenders, such as their age, family environment, and mental health evaluations.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions that require courts to fix both minimum and maximum terms for sentences of offenders under eighteen, aligning with the new guidelines established in section 28-105.02. It also allows for discretion in sentencing, permitting courts to consider alternative dispositions under the Nebraska Juvenile Code instead of imposing standard penalties. The original sections being amended are repealed, indicating a comprehensive overhaul of how juvenile felony offenses are handled in Nebraska.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 28-105.02, 29-2204