HI HB792

Grants circuit courts discretion to impose sentences on minors or adults convicted of felonies committed before age of majority that are up to 50 percent shorter than mandatory minimums, but not shorter than 50 percent of the mandatory minimum.

Requires circuit courts to consider the differences between minor and adult offenders, including diminished culpability of minors and typical characteristics of youth when sentencing.

Allows circuit courts to decline to impose mandatory sentencing enhancements when imposing sentences of five years or more incarceration for these offenders.

Applies only to cases where family court has waived jurisdiction under section 571-22 and the minor or adult is convicted in circuit court.

Takes effect July 1, 2023, and does not apply retroactively to proceedings begun before the effective date.