Bill > SB5267

This bill establishes a new process for considering the death penalty for individuals who commit murder while already incarcerated. Specifically, if a person is charged with aggravated first-degree murder while serving a prison sentence, the prosecuting attorney must forward the case to a newly created death penalty review panel. This panel will consist of four prosecuting attorneys (representing both urban and rural areas), the attorney general or their designee, and the secretary of the department of corrections or their designee. The local prosecuting attorney from the county where the murder occurred will also serve as an ad hoc panel member. The panel will review all submitted materials and make a recommendation about seeking the death penalty by evaluating three key factors: the presence of mitigating circumstances, whether the death penalty would contribute to retribution and deterrence, and whether it meets standards of fairness and consistency in the criminal justice system. If a majority of the panel recommends pursuing the death penalty, the prosecuting attorney must file a notice of a special sentencing proceeding within 30 days of the defendant's arraignment. During this period, the defendant cannot plead guilty to the charge without the prosecuting attorney's consent. If no notice is filed, the prosecuting attorney cannot request the death penalty for the case.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5267&Year=2025&Initiative=false