MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Gov. Kay Ivey is calling on lawmakers to move quickly on legislation that would make certain sexual crimes against young children punishable by death.
Ivey said during her State of the State address Tuesday night that the Child Predator Death Penalty Act is a top priority as the new legislative session begins.
“When it comes to safeguarding our state there is no higher priority than protecting Alabama’s children,” Ivey said. “The passage of the Child Predator Death Penalty Act will provide the strongest legal shield possible for the most vulnerable of our society, our children.”
The bill, HB41 and SB17, is sponsored by Rep. Matt Simpson and Sen. April Weaver. It would increase penalties for felony sexual crimes against children.
Under the proposal, first-degree rape, first-degree sodomy and first-degree sexual assault involving victims under age 12 would be classified as capital offenses, making them eligible for the death penalty.
Simpson said the legislation sends a clear message about accountability for crimes against children.
“This legislation makes clear that the most heinous crimes against children will be met with the strongest penalties allowed under the law,” Simpson said.
Supporters point to a 2025 Bibb County case in which eight people were arrested and charged with rape, trafficking and sexual torture involving at least 10 children, some as young as 3 years old, as evidence of the need for tougher penalties.
Weaver said the bill is intended to serve as a deterrent and strengthen protections for children statewide.
“Our duty as a society should be to protect those who cannot protect themselves,” Weaver said.
If approved by the Legislature and signed by the governor, the Child Predator Death Penalty Act would take effect Oct. 1, 2026.
