What does Preamble of HR 7702 do?

This bill proposes to amend Title 18, United States Code, to authorize capital punishment for specific sexual abuse offenses against children. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 25, 2026, by Ms. Mace.

What does SHORT TITLE. of HR 7702 do?

This bill is formally titled the 'Death Penalty for Child Rapists Act'.

What does AUTHORIZATION OF DEATH PENALTY FOR CERTAIN SEXUAL ABUSE of HR 7702 do?

This section amends Title 18, United States Code, to authorize the death penalty for certain offenses related to sexual abuse against children. Section 2241(c) concerning Aggravated Sexual Abuse is amended to allow for a potential sentence of death. Section 2243(a) concerning Sexual Abuse of a Minor is amended to allow for a potential sentence of death. Section 2244 concerning Abusive Sexual Contact is amended in multiple paragraphs to allow for a potential sentence of death. Section 3591(a) is amended to include offenses described in sections 2241, 2243, or 2244 against a child as qualifying for the death penalty.

What does AUTHORIZATION OF DEATH PENALTY FOR OFFENSE OF RAPE OF A CHILD of HR 7702 do?

This section amends Section 920b(a) of title 10, United States Code. The amendment modifies article 120b(a) of the Uniform Code of Military Justice. The amendment allows for the punishment of death, or other punishment, for offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

What does SEVERABILITY. of HR 7702 do?

This section establishes a severability clause for the Act. If a portion of the Act is deemed unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will still be in effect. The application of a provision to a specific person or circumstance will not be affected by a constitutional challenge to that provision.

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Death Penalty for Child Rapists Act — HR. 7702

Last updated: 2/25/2026 · Introduced: 2/25/2026

Author: Nancy Mace (R-SC)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill authorizes the death penalty for certain offenses related to sexual abuse against children, including aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse of a minor, and abusive sexual contact.
The bill expands the potential death penalty to include offenses under the Uniform Code of Military Justice involving the rape of a child.
If any part of this bill is found unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will still be enforced.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 3 more.

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