SB119 Alabama 2018 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Hank Sanders

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2018

Title

Death penalty, persons under certain age exempt

Summary

SB 119 would prohibit the death penalty for anyone who was under 18 when they committed a capital offense in Alabama.

What This Bill Does

If passed, the bill would ensure that the death penalty cannot be used against defendants who were under 18 at the time of the capital offense. It does not specify what sentence would replace the death penalty. The act would take effect immediately upon the governor's approval.

Who It Affects

• Defendants who committed a capital offense before turning 18 (they would not be eligible for the death penalty).
• Alabama prosecutors, judges, and other parts of the criminal justice system (they would apply this rule when deciding sentences for capital offenses).

Key Provisions

• Section 2: The death penalty shall not be imposed upon any person who was less than 18 years of age at the time of the capital offense.
• Section 3: The act becomes effective immediately upon its passage and approval by the Governor (or otherwise becoming law).
• Section 1 defines a 'minor' as under 18 and lists examples of restrictions associated with being a minor, illustrating how the bill distinguishes minors for context.

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