This bill proposes amendments to the penalties and parole eligibility for second-degree murder under West Virginia law. Specifically, it changes the imprisonment term from a minimum of ten years to a minimum of fifteen years, and increases the maximum term from forty years to sixty years. Additionally, the bill stipulates that individuals convicted of second-degree murder will not be eligible for parole until they have served at least fifteen years of their sentence or the minimum period required by existing law, whichever is greater.

The intent of this legislation is to impose stricter penalties and enhance the conditions for parole eligibility for those convicted of second-degree murder, reflecting a tougher stance on violent crimes. The changes aim to ensure that offenders serve a more substantial portion of their sentences before being considered for parole, thereby potentially increasing public safety and accountability.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-2-3