Florida Loosens Restrictions Surrounding Application of Death Penalty

April 26, 2023

Death Penalty Eligibility for Sexual Battery of a Minor Under 12: On Tuesday, HB 1297 received final passage in the Senate by a 34-5 vote. The FCCB opposes legislation that makes it easier to impose a death sentence, a process that should be as transparent and secure as possible.
Legislation Eliminating Unanimous Jury Requirement: On Thursday, Governor Ron DeSantis signed SB 450 into law, eliminating the requirement for a jury to unanimously recommend a death sentence in a capital case. Instead, only 8 out of 12 jurors must concur on the sentence. Read the FCCB's press release following the bill's passage.