SB61 Alabama 2015 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Hank Sanders

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2015

Title

Death penalty, persons under certain age exempt

Summary

SB61 would bar the death penalty for anyone who committed a capital offense while they were under 18 years old.

What This Bill Does

If passed, the death penalty could not be imposed on defendants who were younger than 18 at the time of the capital offense. The bill would still allow other punishments, such as life in prison, for those offenses. It would take effect immediately upon passage.

Who It Affects

• Defendants who were under 18 at the time of the capital offense would no longer be eligible for the death penalty
• The Alabama court system, including prosecutors and defense attorneys, would apply the new rule in capital cases

Key Provisions

• Section 2: The death penalty shall not be imposed upon any person who was less than 18 years old at the time of the capital offense.
• Section 3: The act becomes effective immediately upon its passage and approval by the Governor.
• Section 1: Defines 'minor' as under 18 and sets context for related provisions.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Crimes and Offenses