Bill > SB1597

This bill modifies the sentencing guidelines for second degree murder in Arizona by adjusting the minimum, presumptive, and maximum prison terms. For individuals convicted of second degree murder without prior serious felony convictions, the bill changes the sentencing range from a minimum of 10 years, presumptive of 16 years, and maximum of 25 years to a minimum of 10 years, presumptive of 20 years, and maximum of 25 years. For individuals with previous convictions of second degree murder or certain dangerous felonies, the bill increases the sentencing range from a minimum of 15 years, presumptive of 20 years, and maximum of 29 years to a minimum of 15 years, presumptive of 25 years, and maximum of 29 years. The bill maintains the existing provision that allows for mitigation or aggravation of the presumptive sentence based on specific factors outlined in another section of Arizona law. These changes effectively increase the presumptive sentences for second degree murder, potentially resulting in longer average prison terms for individuals convicted of this crime.