SB16-064: Measures Related to Death Penalty Cases

• Changes Colorado law to allow death penalty verdicts by agreement of at least 9 out of 12 jurors instead of requiring unanimous agreement

• If fewer than 9 jurors agree that at least one aggravating factor exists, the jury must render a verdict of life imprisonment

• If fewer than 9 jurors can agree on a sentence, the jury shall be discharged and the court shall sentence the defendant to life imprisonment

• Takes effect 90 days after final adjournment of the general assembly (August 10, 2016, if adjournment sine die occurs on May 11, 2016), unless subject to referendum petition

• Applies to offenses committed on or after the effective date of the act