HB540 Summary

• Approves modified Alabama sentencing standards adopted by the Sentencing Commission on November 6, 2009, for implementation effective October 1, 2010.

• Expands sentencing standards to include attempts, conspiracies, and solicitations to commit murder and drug offenses (possession of marijuana, unlawful possession of controlled substances, and sale or distribution of marijuana and Schedule I-V controlled substances).

• Requires sentencing standards worksheets to be filed with the trial court clerk and made part of the case record for all cases where standards are considered, effective October 1, 2010.

• Directs the Alabama Sentencing Commission to continue developing sentencing standards through ongoing data collection and analysis to incorporate additional punishment options.