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SB 264

Allowing death penalty for intentionally killing law-enforcement officer or first responder in line of duty

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Vince Deeds and 4 co-sponsors

SB 264: Allowing Death Penalty for Killing Law Enforcement or First Responders OverviewBill Number: SB 264 Title: Allowing death penalty for intentionally killing law-enforcement

To Finance
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Bill Summary · SB 264

SB 264: Allowing Death Penalty for Killing Law Enforcement or First Responders

Overview

Bill Number: SB 264
Title: Allowing death penalty for intentionally killing law-enforcement officer or first responder in line of duty
Status: To Finance
Introduced: November 12, 2024

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SB 264 is to expand the application of the death penalty to individuals who intentionally kill a law enforcement officer or first responder while they are performing their official duties. The bill's supporters argue that this would provide enhanced legal protections for public safety personnel and serve as a strong deterrent against attacks on those who serve the community.

Key Provisions

  • Adds the intentional killing of a law enforcement officer or first responder in the line of duty to the list of offenses eligible for the death penalty
  • Defines "law enforcement officer" and "first responder" to include police, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and other public safety personnel
  • Requires prosecutors to provide notice of intent to seek the death penalty at least 60 days prior to the start of trial
  • Establishes specific aggravating factors that would make a defendant eligible for capital punishment in these cases

Affected Parties and Impacts

The primary parties affected by this legislation would be:

  • Law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMTs, and other first responders, who would receive enhanced legal protections
  • Individuals accused of intentionally killing a public safety official, who would face the possibility of capital punishment
  • Prosecutors, who would have the option to seek the death penalty in qualifying cases
  • The judicial system, which would need to handle potential death penalty trials and appeals

Supporters argue the bill would improve safety and morale for first responders, while critics express concerns about expanding the death penalty and the potential for wrongful convictions.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

SB 264 has been referred to the Senate Finance Committee for further consideration. If it passes out of committee, it would then proceed to a full vote in the state Senate. If approved by the Senate, the bill would move to the House for consideration. The legislative session is scheduled to conclude in early 2025, so lawmakers will need to act quickly to advance the bill through the process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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