The bill amends Title 42 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes by adding a new section, 9720.9, which establishes sentencing enhancements for offenses committed during riots. Specifically, the Pennsylvania Commission on Sentencing is tasked with creating guidelines that include increased penalties for certain offenses, such as simple assault, aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person, terroristic threats, harassment, burglary, and criminal trespass, when these offenses are committed in the context of a riot as defined under Pennsylvania law.
The new legal language specifies that the sentencing guidelines will account for aggravating circumstances, particularly if the offense occurred while engaging in a violation of the riot statute. This legislative change aims to address the seriousness of crimes committed during riots and ensure that offenders face appropriate consequences. The act is set to take effect 60 days after its passage.