Modifies provisions relating to sodomy in the first degree

HB 161 modifies the trial process for defendants charged with sodomy in the first degree under a specific legal subsection (subdivision (4) of subsection 2 of section 566.060) when the death penalty is sought. It requires a two-stage trial: first determining guilt, then assessing punishment. The bill specifies that life imprisonment without parole (instead of the death penalty) applies if the defendant is intellectually disabled, no aggravating circumstances are proven, or mitigating evidence outweighs aggravating factors. This change directly affects defendants in capital sodomy cases under this exact legal provision, altering sentencing procedures for this specific offense.