Michigan House Bill HB5688

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/25/24
• Refer: 4/25/24

Caption

Criminal procedure: sentencing guidelines; sentencing guidelines for sexual conduct with a corpse or involving a corpse; create. Amends sec. 16i, ch. XVII of 1927 PA 175 (MCL 777.16i). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5687'24

Impact

The bill's introduction marks a significant change in how Michigan's legal system approaches sexual conduct offenses involving corpses. The sentencing guidelines outlined in the bill aim to reflect the gravity of such actions, proposing severe penalties in line with existing felonies dealing with sexual offenses. This not only attempts to standardize legal consequences but also aligns the state's legal commitments to protecting the sanctity of the deceased and the moral considerations surrounding handling and conduct related to corpses.

Summary

House Bill 5688 aims to amend the Michigan Code of Criminal Procedure by establishing specific sentencing guidelines for offenses involving sexual conduct with a corpse. This bill is a response to the recognition of such offenses within the state and seeks to create a legal framework that addresses the seriousness of these actions. By specifying penalties, the law intends to provide clearer consequences for offenders, thereby promoting justice and deterring similar crimes in the future.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 5688 may involve varying opinions concerning the appropriateness of its specified penalties and whether existing laws sufficiently address such behaviors. Some advocates may argue that the severity of the proposed guidelines adequately reflects societal norms and expectations regarding the treatment of corpses, while others may view the bill as overly punitive, warning against the potential for disproportionate sentencing that could arise from its enactment. The bill also ties to another legislation (HB 5687), suggesting a broader legislative strategy to enforce stricter regulations against related offenses.