NC H674

Redefines habitual felons as persons convicted of three prior Class G felonies or higher committed within 15 years of the principal felony, narrowing the definition from any felony convictions.

Changes sentencing for habitual felons from a fixed Class C sentence to one felony class higher than the principal felony for which the person is convicted.

Creates enhanced sentencing for defendants convicted of Class H or I felonies with three or more prior Class H or I felony convictions within 10 years, imposing a minimum of 20 months and maximum of 25 months active punishment plus 12 months post-release supervision.

Requires the Post-Release Supervision and Parole Commission to review inmates eligible for parole by July 1, 2012, to determine if they have served longer than would be imposed under Structured Sentencing and reinitiate parole review if so.

Effective December 1, 2011, with the enhanced sentencing provision applying to principal felonies committed on or after that date.