Relating to deferred or suspended sentences for cases involving sexual exploitation of a minor

Where it is now

1. ✓
   Done: IntroducedJanuary 22, 2026
2. ✓
   Done: SubcommitteeJanuary 22, 2026
3. ✓
   Done: House committeeFebruary 10, 2026
4. ✓
   Done: Passes the HouseMarch 4, 202697–0
5. ✓
   Done: Senate committeeMarch 18, 2026
6. ✓
   Done: Passes the SenateMarch 24, 202646–0
7. ✓
   Done: To the GovernorApril 9, 2026
8. ✓
   Done: Signed into lawApril 9, 2026

Signed into law What’s a funnel?

What’s in it

AI summary If a person is convicted of sexually exploiting a child who is under 12 or prepubescent, they cannot receive a suspended or deferred sentence. This rule changes how judges can sentence people based on the age of the victim.¹

Changed since by amendment H-8117; see Amendments.

Full bill text · What changed before it passed²

Senate subcommittee

Named March 10, 2026. On March 11, 2026 it recommended passage.

• Sen. Cherielynn Westrich REmail
• Sen. Tony Bisignano DEmail
• Sen. Jeff Reichman REmail

Three legislators hear a bill first and recommend what the committee should do; it’s the best time to weigh in. How to take part

Fiscal note

Cost: up to $619,000 Compare with other bills

AI summary This bill prohibits courts from deferring or suspending sentences for individuals convicted of sexual exploitation of a minor. The total fiscal impact to the Department of Corrections is $1.0 million, which includes approximately $619,000 per year in additional spending. This increase is due to an estimated rise in the prison population of about 56 individuals who would otherwise be admitted to probation or receive deferred sentences.³

From the note: 0 million. This includes approximately $619,000 per year in additional spending, beyond the current $408,000 for probation costs, due to an increase in an estimated prison population of approximately 56 individuals who would, under current law, be admitted to probation or receive deferred sentences. Figure 3 shows the new total cost under the Bill.

• Final Fiscal Note — Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Prohibition on Suspending Sentences · May 19, 2026 · $619,000
• Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Prohibition on Suspending Sentences · March 23, 2026 · $619,000
• Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Prohibition on Suspending Sentences · March 23, 2026
• Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, Prohibition on Suspending Sentences · March 3, 2026

Reading a fiscal note⁵

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