The bill H. 4719 seeks to amend Section 16-3-20 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to the punishment for murder and the conditions under which the death penalty may be sought. The key change introduced by this bill is the addition of premeditated murder as an aggravating circumstance for which the death penalty can be pursued. Specifically, the bill defines premeditated murder as an act where the offender has created a plan of action and taken steps toward its execution, culminating in the murder.

In addition to this new insertion, the bill maintains the existing statutory aggravating circumstances that allow for the death penalty, which include various violent crimes and specific situations involving law enforcement and judicial officials. The bill emphasizes that the amendments will not affect any pending actions or rights under the current law, ensuring that all previous legal standings remain intact. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
Latest Version: 16-3-20