Bill > HB146

This bill, known as Jolee's Law, amends Alabama's existing law regarding youthful offender status by introducing significant restrictions on eligibility for individuals charged with serious violent crimes. Specifically, the bill prohibits any person who is 16 years of age or older from being tried as a youthful offender if they are charged with capital murder or murder. Under the revised law, such individuals must be charged, arrested, and tried as adults, removing judicial discretion in these cases. The bill also maintains existing provisions that require courts to conduct an evidentiary hearing and provide notice to victims before determining youthful offender status, particularly in cases involving serious physical injury or intentional killing. Additionally, the bill clarifies that individuals charged with crimes committed before age 21 may still be eligible for youthful offender investigation and examination, with consent from the defendant, unless they fall under the new murder-related exclusion. The legislation is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and aims to ensure more stringent legal treatment of individuals charged with the most serious violent offenses.

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https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search