SB17 Alabama 2026 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

April WeaverSenator

Republican

Session

2026 Regular Session

Title

Crimes and offenses; rape in the first degree, sodomy in the first degree, and sexual torture, penalties further provided for

Summary

SB17 would make rape in the first degree, sodomy in the first degree, and sexual torture capital offenses when the victim is under 12, require a 30-year minimum before parole for life sentences, and designate the measure as the Child Predator Death Penalty Act, effective October 1, 2026.

What This Bill Does

It designates rape in the first degree, sodomy in the first degree, and sexual torture against a victim under 12 as capital offenses under Alabama law. It adds these offenses to the list of capital offenses that can carry the most severe penalties. It also requires that anyone sentenced to life imprisonment for these offenses must serve at least 30 years before they can be considered for parole. The act becomes effective on October 1, 2026.

Who It Affects

• Victims under 12 years old, who trigger capital-offense status for the offenses of rape first degree, sodomy first degree, or sexual torture when the victim is under 12.
• Defendants convicted of rape first degree, sodomy first degree, or sexual torture where the victim is under 12, who would face capital-offense penalties and, if given life imprisonment, a minimum 30-year parole-ineligibility period.

Key Provisions

• Adds rape in the first degree, sodomy in the first degree, and sexual torture when the victim is under 12 to the set of capital offenses (amends sections 13A-5-40, 13A-6-61, 13A-6-63, and 13A-6-65.1).
• For offenses designated as capital offenses, a defendant sentenced to life imprisonment must serve a minimum of 30 years before any parole consideration (day-for-day).
• The act is titled the 'Child Predator Death Penalty Act.'
• Effective date: October 1, 2026.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 12, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Crimes & Offenses