H0555: Sentencing Proceedings in Death Penalty Cases

Legislative Summary

Requires determination of specified number of jurors, rather than unanimity, for sentencing recommendation of death; requires court to impose recommended sentence of life imprisonment without possibility of parole if fewer than 8 jurors recommend death; authorizes court to impose life imprisonment without possibility of parole or sentence of death if at least 8 jurors recommend sentence of death; requires court to include in its written order reasons for not accepting jury's recommended sentence, if applicable.