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Senate moves felony-enhancement bill for parties to violent offenses to third reading
Summary
SB 84 would clarify that persons party to a felony involving a dangerous weapon may receive the same enhancement as the principal; the Senate advanced the bill to third reading by roll call (25–0, 4 absent).
SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Senate on Jan. 27 advanced SB 84, a bill to clarify sentencing enhancements when a second party is complicit in a felony involving a dangerous weapon.
Senator Wadhams introduced the measure on behalf of the Statewide Association of Prosecutors, saying it would make clear that someone who is party to a felony in which a dangerous weapon is used but did not personally use the weapon can receive the same enhancement as the person who did. "If they're breaking the law and they're committing a felony, I believe they should pay the price the same as other people," the sponsor said, noting organized opposition withdrew after reviewing language.
No extended debate followed; the Senate proceeded to a roll-call vote and the presiding officer announced 25 ayes, no nays and four absences. SB 84 advanced to the third-reading calendar.
The bill will return for third-reading consideration.
