This legislative proposal aims to significantly increase the penalties for certain child sexual abuse offenses by authorizing the death penalty. It specifically amends Title 18 of the United States Code, modifying sections pertaining to aggravated sexual abuse , sexual abuse of a minor , and abusive sexual contact . For these crimes, the bill replaces existing sentencing guidelines with the option of punishment by death or imprisonment for any term of years or life, alongside a fine. Furthermore, the bill expands the list of offenses under federal law for which a sentence of death can be imposed to include these specific crimes when committed against a child. It also extends this authorization to the military justice system, allowing for the death penalty for the offense of rape of a child under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. A severability clause is included to ensure that if any provision of the Act is found unconstitutional, the remaining parts will remain in effect.
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Timeline
Introduced in House
Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Introduced in House
Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Crime and Law Enforcement
Death Penalty for Child Rapists Act
USA119th CongressHR-7702| House
| Updated: 2/25/2026
This legislative proposal aims to significantly increase the penalties for certain child sexual abuse offenses by authorizing the death penalty. It specifically amends Title 18 of the United States Code, modifying sections pertaining to aggravated sexual abuse , sexual abuse of a minor , and abusive sexual contact . For these crimes, the bill replaces existing sentencing guidelines with the option of punishment by death or imprisonment for any term of years or life, alongside a fine. Furthermore, the bill expands the list of offenses under federal law for which a sentence of death can be imposed to include these specific crimes when committed against a child. It also extends this authorization to the military justice system, allowing for the death penalty for the offense of rape of a child under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. A severability clause is included to ensure that if any provision of the Act is found unconstitutional, the remaining parts will remain in effect.
Get AI-generated questions to help you understand this bill better
Timeline
Introduced in House
Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
Introduced in House
Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.