This is creating a bit of a firestorm in conservative circles. I happen to agree with them that this seems like a bad idea. The following bill would prevent a Murder 1 conviction if someone under 25 commits the murder in the commission of another crime like carjacking. This effectively reduces the maximum sentence from life to 40 years (Murder 2). The justification is that murder convictions disproportionately impact African Americans in Maryland when compared to the population and that younger minds have less ability to comprehend the results of their actions.

On the flip side the victims are far more likely to also be African American. I think this type of bill just devalues their lives. I want maximum deterrents in place for violent crimes like robbery and car jacking - shouldn't everyone?

From a purely political standpoint, does this type of bill help to garner additional votes or lose votes? The sponsor is a Maryland state Democrat Representative.


"Providing that a person who was under the age of 25 years at the time of the offense may not be found to have committed murder in the first degree if the charge is based on a murder committed in the perpetration or attempt to perpetrate a certain felony."




https://trackbill.com/bill/maryland-house-bill-1180-criminal-law-youth-accountability-and-safety-act/2363371/