HB 248 Summary

• Establishes a prison term of 20 years to life for murder convictions when the victim is less than 13 years of age, unless the offender is subject to the Sexually Violent Predator Sentencing Law.

• Adds a new sentencing provision (division B(2) of section 2929.02) requiring courts to impose the enhanced sentence for child victims under 13 years old, except when sexual motivation specifications apply.

• If a sexual motivation specification is included with a child victim under 13, the court must impose 30 years to life under the Sexually Violent Predator Sentencing Law instead of the standard 20 years to life.

• Applies only to murder violations committed on or after the effective date of the act.

• Amends multiple sections of the Revised Code (2929.02, 2929.14, 2941.148, 2971.03, 2971.07, and 5120.61) to align sentencing provisions with the new requirements for child victim murders.