Eric’s Law

This bill changes what happens when a jury in a federal death penalty case can’t agree on a sentence. If the first jury does not unanimously recommend a sentence, the judge must—if the prosecutor asks—hold a new sentencing hearing with a new jury. If the second jury still can’t agree, the judge must give a sentence other than death .

Key points

• Who is affected: People in federal cases where the death penalty is possible, as well as prosecutors, judges, and jurors in those cases.
• What changes: A second sentencing hearing with a new jury is required if the first jury can’t agree; if the second jury still can’t agree, the court cannot impose the death penalty .
• When: This would take effect if the bill becomes law, by amending federal criminal law procedures for capital cases.