MO HB1560

Adds "murder in the first degree" to the definition of "dangerous felony" in Section 556.061.

Modifies punishment for first degree murder to distinguish between offenders age 18 or older and those under 18 at time of offense; offenders 18 or older face death penalty or life without parole, while those under 18 face life without parole or life with parole eligibility.

Changes the age threshold for mandatory life imprisonment from sixteenth birthday to eighteenth birthday for first degree murder convictions.

Removes prior language requiring murder in the first degree to be "charged but not submitted" before proceeding as a single-stage trial, streamlining trial procedures.

Section 565.032 changes become effective January 1, 2016; sections 556.061 and 565.020 are declared emergency measures effective immediately upon passage.