This bill proposes an amendment to the penalty for second degree murder in West Virginia, specifically altering the language in section 61-2-3 of the Code. The current punishment of "not less than ten nor more than forty years" is replaced with a new penalty of "15 years to life imprisonment." Additionally, the minimum time a person must serve before being eligible for parole is increased from ten years to 15 years.

The bill aims to strengthen the consequences for individuals convicted of second degree murder by imposing a more severe sentence and extending the period before parole eligibility. This change reflects a legislative intent to address the seriousness of such crimes and enhance public safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-2-3