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HB 653 — Aggravating Factors for Capital Felonies
by Reps. Holcomb, Nix and Fabricio (SB 776 by Senator Ingoglia)
This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.
Prepared by: Criminal Justice Committee (CJ)
The bill creates an additional aggravating factor for the jury and the sentencing court to consider in determining whether a defendant who has been convicted of a capital felony is eligible to receive a death sentence and whether to recommend a sentence of death or life imprisonment.
The new aggravating factor allows the jury to consider whether the capital felony was committed against the head of a state, including but not limited to, the President or the Vice President of the United States or the Governor of this or another state, or if in an attempt to commit such crime the defendant committed a capital felony against another individual.
If approved by the Governor, or allowed to become law without the Governor’s signature, these provisions take effect July 1, 2025.
Vote: Senate 25-12; House 99-13