Pa. Supreme Court ruling on second-degree murder sentencing approaches deadline
Updated: 8:45 PM EDT Jul 13, 2026
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s ruling that life sentences for second-degree murder are unconstitutional is set to take effect on July 24, raising concerns about potential consequences if lawmakers do not intervene. Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday said, “Hundreds convicted could be released if lawmakers don’t do something.” The decision, which applies to those convicted of second-degree murder—commonly referred to as felony murder—remains unaddressed by the state Supreme Court.
HARRISBURG, Pa. —
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court’s ruling that life sentences for second-degree murder are unconstitutional is set to take effect on July 24, raising concerns about potential consequences if lawmakers do not intervene.
Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday said, “Hundreds convicted could be released if lawmakers don’t do something.”
The decision, which applies to those convicted of second-degree murder—commonly referred to as felony murder—remains unaddressed by the state Supreme Court.