DE SB19

Eliminates capital punishment in Delaware by removing the death penalty as a sentencing option for first-degree murder convictions.

Requires that all convicted first-degree murderers be sentenced to life imprisonment without benefit of probation, parole, or any other reduction.

Applies the life sentence requirement retroactively to persons already sentenced to death prior to the effective date of the act, commuting their sentences to life imprisonment.

Repeals all procedural sections related to death penalty hearings, jury instructions on aggravating circumstances, and judicial review of capital sentences by the Delaware Supreme Court.

Repeals the enumeration of 22 statutory aggravating circumstances and related provisions that previously governed when courts could impose death sentences.