Loading chat...
WI AB1132
Bill
Status
3/13/2026
Primary Sponsor
Elijah Behnke
Click for details
AI Summary
-
Establishes the death penalty in Wisconsin for first degree sexual assault of a child, specifically for sexual contact or intercourse with a child under 13 resulting in great bodily harm, or sexual intercourse with a child under 12.
-
Requires DNA evidence linking the defendant to the crime for a death sentence to be imposed; prohibits death sentences for defendants who are intellectually disabled or were under 18 at the time of the offense.
-
Mandates a separate sentencing hearing before a jury after conviction, where parties may present evidence on the offense, defendant's background, and mitigating circumstances; jury must unanimously recommend death for it to be imposed.
-
Creates automatic appellate review by the Wisconsin Supreme Court within 60 days for all death sentences; only the governor or an appeal can stay an execution.
-
Requires the Department of Corrections to promulgate emergency rules establishing execution procedures, including method of execution, within 6 months of enactment; Secretary of Corrections designates the executioner and 12 citizen witnesses.
Legislative Description
Creating the penalty of death or life imprisonment for persons who are convicted of certain child sex offenses, providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures, and providing a penalty. (FE)
Last Action
Read first time and referred to Committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety
3/13/2026