SB 20-100: Repeal of the Death Penalty

• Eliminates the death penalty as a sentencing option for Class 1 felonies charged on or after July 1, 2020, replacing it with life imprisonment.

• Does not apply retroactively to offenses charged prior to July 1, 2020, and does not commute or alter existing death sentences.

• Changes maximum sentence for Class 1 felonies committed after July 1, 2020 to life imprisonment with mandatory parole periods ranging from three to five years depending on offense classification.

• Modifies appellate review procedures and sentencing hearing provisions to remove references to capital punishment for offenses charged after the effective date.

• Maintains life without parole as the sentence for first degree murder of peace officers, firefighters, or emergency medical service providers unless the offense was charged before July 1, 2020.