The bill amends Section 11-37-3 of the General Laws in Chapter 11-37, which pertains to "Sexual Assault." It specifically addresses the penalty for first-degree sexual assault. The amendment increases the minimum imprisonment term from ten (10) years to fifteen (15) years. Additionally, it stipulates that the first ten (10) years of the sentence must be served without the possibility of deferment or suspension of the sentence, meaning that the convicted individual is not eligible for early release or a pause in serving their sentence during this initial period.

The bill, known as "Sherry's Law," is designed to impose stricter penalties for first-degree sexual assault and ensure that offenders serve a substantial portion of their sentence. The act will become effective immediately upon passage and will apply to all offenses committed after the effective date of the section. The legislative explanation clarifies the intent of the bill to increase the minimum sentence and eliminate the option for sentence suspension or deferment for the first ten years of the sentence for first-degree sexual assault.

Statutes affected:
2230: 11-37-3