Assembly Bill 895 introduces significant changes to the sentencing procedures for youthful offenders, defined as individuals who committed crimes before turning 18. The bill establishes a sentence adjustment procedure allowing these offenders to petition for a sentence reduction after serving 15 years, or 20 years for certain serious felonies. It prohibits life sentences without the possibility of parole for youthful offenders and mandates that courts consider new mitigating factors related to the offender's age and maturity during sentencing and parole hearings. Additionally, the bill requires the Department of Corrections to notify youthful offenders of their eligibility for sentence adjustments and outlines the rights of both the offenders and victims during the petition process.

The bill also amends various statutes to align with these new provisions, including the elimination of mandatory life sentences without parole for youthful offenders, in compliance with the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Miller v. Alabama. It creates new legal language to ensure that courts set eligibility dates for parole or extended supervision for youthful offenders sentenced to life imprisonment. The bill emphasizes the importance of considering mitigating factors in sentencing and parole decisions, thereby promoting a more rehabilitative approach for youthful offenders within the justice system.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 302.113(2), 302.113, 302.114(1), 302.114, 302.114(2), 303.065(1)(b)1, 303.065, 304.02(5), 304.02, 304.06(1)(b), 304.06, 304.071(2), 304.071, 939.62(2m)(b)(intro.), 939.62, 950.04(1v)(g), 950.04, 950.04(1v)(gm), 950.04(1v)(m), 973.01(3), 973.01, 973.01(4)