HB 157: Sex Offender Penalties
2007 General Session

Sponsor: Rep. Edward Buchanan (R-H4, Torrington); co-sponsor Sen. Curt Meier (R-S3, LaGrange)

HB 157 would increase penalties for sex offenses committed against children and minors, including a mandatory sentence of life in prison without parole upon a second conviction for sexual assault, or immoral or indecent acts against a minor.

As with other bills that contained mandatory sentencing provisions, concern was raised about inappropriately reducing judicial power and discretion. Opponents argued that judges should retain the ability to evaluate cases, especially those involving younger perpetrators, on a case-by-case basis.