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House passes substitute to ease mandatory sentences for narrow subset of sexual-offense cases, prompting strong floor debate
Summary
The House approved a second substitute to HB 222 allowing judges limited discretion in sentencing certain offenders age 21 or younger for some sexual-offense statutes. Supporters framed the change as narrowly targeted; opponents warned it weakens mandatory protections for child-victims. The measure passed 42-31 and will move to the Senate.
Representative Handy presented the second substitute to House Bill 222, which creates a framework under which a court may impose a lesser term than otherwise mandatory for certain sexual-offense convictions if the defendant was age 21 or younger and the court makes required findings.
Supporters, including Representative Nelson and others, described the substitute as a calibrated approach to give judges discretion in…
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