Bill > SB1400

This bill amends Pennsylvania law to revise sentencing guidelines for murder, particularly second-degree murder, and to adjust parole eligibility for certain offenders. Key changes include establishing a minimum sentence of 35 years for second-degree murder for adults, with provisions for life imprisonment without parole under specific aggravating circumstances such as the victim being a law enforcement officer or a child under 13, or if the defendant committed rape or deviate sexual intercourse by force during the offense, or has a prior crime of violence conviction. It also allows for reduced minimum sentences for second-degree murder if the defendant proves by a preponderance of the evidence that they were not the sole participant, did not intend to cause death, did not use a deadly weapon, and had no reason to believe others would use a deadly weapon or cause death. The bill also expands the definition of "crime of violence" to include second-degree murder for the purposes of sentencing for repeat offenders and clarifies that individuals convicted of second-degree murder are generally ineligible for the motivational boot camp program. Furthermore, it introduces new parole eligibility for individuals serving life sentences for second-degree murder, allowing parole after serving at least 35 years, or after 20 years if the offender is 70 or older, with specific exclusions for those sentenced to life without parole, those who killed a law enforcement officer, or those who participated in rape or deviate sexual intercourse by force. The bill also mandates enhanced victim notification procedures for parole hearings concerning offenders eligible under these new provisions and aims to address a Pennsylvania Supreme Court decision.