Bill > HB6259

This bill modifies Michigan’s sentencing guidelines by increasing the severity of punishments for second-degree and third-degree criminal sexual conduct. Under the proposed changes, the felony classification for both offenses is elevated from lower-severity letters (Class C and Class B, respectively) up to Class A, which is the state's most severe felony classification level. Correspondingly, the maximum possible statutory sentence ("Stat Max") for both second-degree and third-degree criminal sexual conduct is increased from a maximum of 15 years in prison to up to life imprisonment, aligning their maximum penalties with first-degree criminal sexual conduct. In the context of criminal sentencing guidelines, these classifications help judges determine standard sentencing ranges, and this bill serves as part of a tie-barred legislative package (requiring related bills HB 6261 and HB 6262 to also pass) that is scheduled to take effect 90 days after enactment.