HB359 Alabama 2020 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Chris EnglandRepresentative

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2020

Title

Sentencing, to require a unanimous vote by jurors to recommend a sentence of death in capital murder cases, Sec. 13A-5-46 am'd.

Summary

HB359 would require juries to unanimously vote to recommend a death sentence in capital murder cases, replacing the current 10-vote requirement.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, the bill changes sentencing so a death recommendation must come from a unanimous jury, while life-without-parole remains a majority-vote outcome. It also includes non-substantive edits to update code language and clarifies local-funds provisions, but it is exempt from local-funding approval rules due to defining or amending a crime. The act would take effect immediately after the governor signs it.

Who It Affects

• Defendants charged with capital murder in Alabama (death sentences would require unanimous jury agreement for a death recommendation).
• Jury members and trial teams (prosecutors and defense attorneys) involved in capital murder sentencing hearings (they must pursue a unanimous vote for death and may adjust strategies accordingly).

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 13A-5-46 to require a unanimous jury vote to recommend a death sentence in a capital murder case; life-without-parole remains a majority-based outcome.
• Includes nonsubstantive, technical updates to current code language to reflect modern style.
• Addresses local-funds expenditure considerations under Amendment 621 of the Alabama Constitution, stating the bill is exempt because it defines or amends a crime, and it becomes effective immediately upon governor's approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Capital Murder