The Paula Bohovesky and Joan D'Alessandro Act would expand criminal penalties for sexual offenses against minors by amending federal law to allow for enhanced sentencing when the victim is under 18 years old. Currently, certain crimes against children carry mandatory minimum sentences of 14 years, but this bill would add language to increase penalties specifically for sexual offenses involving victims under 18. The legislation affects federal prosecutors and judges in cases involving sexual crimes against children, giving them authority to impose more severe sentences in these cases. The bill contains no specific funding provisions or implementation timeline, as it is primarily a change to existing sentencing guidelines. The measure was introduced in May 2024 with bipartisan support from nine House members and was referred to the Judiciary Committee.
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