CA AB2263

Extends the sunset date for judicial discretion in sentencing from January 1, 2011 to January 1, 2012 for sentencing enhancements related to gang activity, firearms, and general sentencing provisions.

Allows courts discretion to impose the term that best serves the interests of justice for gang-related enhancements (two, three, or four years for basic gang felonies; five years for serious felonies; ten years for violent felonies).

Maintains court discretion in selecting sentence enhancements for firearm-related offenses, including carrying firearms during gang crimes and possessing armor-penetrating ammunition.

Makes corresponding changes to provisions that would otherwise require courts to impose the middle term of imprisonment unless circumstances in aggravation or mitigation exist.

Requires a two-thirds vote in each house due to amendments to Proposition 21, an initiative statute adopted by voters in 2000.