The measure, sponsored by Matt Simpson and April Weaver, strengthens criminal penalties for individuals convicted of felony sexual crimes against children.

Under the new law, first-degree rape, first-degree sodomy and first-degree sexual assault involving victims under the age of 12 are now classified as capital offenses, making those convicted eligible for the death penalty.

“For too long, the most vulnerable of our society have lacked the most stringent legal protection from child predators,” Ivey said. “Through the Child Predator Death Penalty Act, Alabama now joins just a handful of states imposing the toughest penalty possible for child predators. Those who target the youngest among us for the vilest crimes will soon be met with the harshest punishment under the law.”

Simpson said the law sends a strong message that Alabama will not tolerate violent crimes against minors.

“With the signing of the Child Predator Death Penalty Act into law, Alabama has taken decisive action to ensure that the most horrific offenses committed against minors face the maximum punishment our legal system permits,” Simpson said. “This law sends a clear message that we will not stand by while young lives are shattered.”

Weaver echoed that sentiment, saying the state now has “zero tolerance” for those who prey on children.

“With the signing of the Child Predator Death Penalty Act, we are putting these sick individuals on notice that a cell on death row awaits them if they abuse the most innocent and defenseless among us,” Weaver said.

According to the governor’s office, the push for stronger penalties followed the arrest of eight individuals in Bibb County who were charged with rape, trafficking and sexual torture involving at least 10 children, some as young as three years old.

State officials say the new law is intended to ensure the harshest punishment available under Alabama law for those convicted of the most serious sexual crimes against young children.