MO SB1697

Creates the "Anti-Epstein Child Protection Act" establishing the death penalty as a possible punishment for statutory rape in the first degree and sexual trafficking of a child in the first degree

Requires a two-stage trial process when the death penalty is sought: the first stage determines guilt, the second stage determines punishment with evidence of aggravation and mitigation

Allows life imprisonment without eligibility for probation, parole, or release (except by governor) as an alternative to death if the defendant is intellectually disabled, if mitigating evidence outweighs aggravating evidence, or if the trier decides against death under the circumstances

Defines "intellectual disability" as substantial limitations in general functioning with subaverage intellectual functioning and deficits in two or more adaptive behaviors, manifested before age 18

Applies only to offenses committed on or after August 28, 2026