IL HB1146

Changes sentencing for first-degree murder by making natural life imprisonment mandatory (rather than discretionary) when the death penalty is not imposed if the defendant murdered someone under 12 years old, killed multiple victims, or murdered a peace officer, firefighter, emergency responder, or correctional employee in the course of their duties.

Adds natural life imprisonment as a mandatory sentence for defendants convicted of first-degree murder accompanied by exceptionally brutal or heinous behavior indicative of wanton cruelty.

Maintains existing mandatory life sentences for defendants with prior first-degree murder convictions and for juvenile offenders (under 17) who murder children under 12 during sexual assault or kidnapping.

Preserves firearm enhancements that add 15 to 25 years to murder sentences depending on whether the defendant was armed with, discharged, or caused injury with a firearm.

Establishes mandatory supervised release terms of 3 years for first-degree murder convictions, with exceptions for certain sexual offenses and child pornography crimes.