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Bill > H7386


RI H7386

RI H7386
JOINT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AND PUBLISH AND SUBMIT TO THE ELECTORS A PROPOSITION OF AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION -- JURY NULLIFICATION AS PROPER TRIAL DEFENSE ARGUMENT (Proposes to the voters a constitutional amendment which would allow a criminal defendant to argue jury nullification as a defense.)


summary

Introduced
01/28/2026
In Committee
01/28/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Joint Resolution To Approve And Publish And Submit To The Electors A Proposition Of Amendment To The Constitution -- Jury Nullification As Proper Trial Defense Argument (proposes To The Voters A Constitutional Amendment Which Would Allow A Criminal Defendant To Argue Jury Nullification As A Defense.)

AI Summary

This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to allow criminal defendants to argue "jury nullification" as a defense during their trials. Jury nullification occurs when a jury, despite believing the defendant violated the law, chooses to acquit them because they believe the law itself is unjust, outdated, or unfair. If approved by voters, this amendment would grant defendants the right to ask juries to consider not only the facts and the law but also the morality and fairness of the law they are accused of breaking, or if the law is unconstitutional, as part of their defense. The resolution outlines the process for submitting this proposed amendment to the voters for approval at the next statewide general election, including requirements for publication and how the election will be conducted.

Committee Categories

Government Affairs

Sponsors (7)

Last Action

Introduced, referred to House State Government & Elections (on 01/28/2026)

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