UPDATE: The Alabama Legislature passed the Child Predator Death Penalty Act on Thursday.
Gov. Kay Ivey made the announcement about the bill’s passage to Facebook.
The bill has now passed both the House and Senate. It now heads to Gov. Ivey’s desk for her to sign.
“We have to do everything we can to protect Alabama’s children. I applaud Sen. April Weaver and Rep. Matt Simpson for carrying this bill. I look forward to signing it into law!” Gov. Ivey said.
HB41 targets people convicted of various forms of sexual abuse involving children aged 12 and younger.
PREVIOUS STORY: Alabama lawmakers are taking another step toward allowing the death penalty as a sentencing option for certain child sex abuse crimes.
The bill, HB41, targets people convicted of various forms of sexual abuse involving children aged 12 and younger. It passed the Alabama House this week, though not without debate and concern from some lawmakers.
Opponents raised questions about the bill’s constitutionality and legality, citing U.S. Supreme Court rulings that limit the use of the death penalty to murder cases. Lawmakers also expressed concern about the potential impact on victims and whether the legislation could withstand legal challenges.
The bill now moves to the Alabama Senate, where it is expected to be taken up for review later this week.
