Rep. Nancy Mace Introduces Bill To Authorize The Death Penalty For Child Rapists
Bill sends an unmistakable message: Child rapists will pay the ultimate price.
WASHINGTON, D.C. (Feb. 26, 2026) — Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC) introduced the Death Penalty for Child Rapists Act, legislation which would authorize capital punishment for individuals convicted of aggravated sexual abuse, sexual abuse of a minor, and abusive sexual contact offenses against children under federal law and the rape of a child under the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
"We have zero mercy for child rapists. Those who prey on our most vulnerable deserve the harshest consequence we can deliver," said Congresswoman Mace. "No predator should be allowed to walk away from the most unthinkable crimes against children. This bill is simple. Rape a child and you don't get a second chance, you get the death penalty. We will never apologize for protecting America’s children."
The legislation builds on Rep. Mace's relentless work to hold predators accountable, including her demands for full transparency and justice for the victims of child sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and every person who conspired or collaborated with him. She has stood with survivors in calling for answers, accountability, and consequences which match the severity of the heinous crimes committed.
What the Death Penalty for Child Rapists Act Does:
The Death Penalty for Child Rapists Act amends Title 18 of the United States Code to authorize capital punishment for the following federal offenses:
- Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Child (18 U.S.C. § 2241(c))
- Sexual Abuse of a Minor (18 U.S.C. § 2243(a))
- Abusive Sexual Contact Against a Child (18 U.S.C. § 2244)
The legislation also amends the Uniform Code of Military Justice to authorize the death penalty for rape of a child under Article 120b (10 U.S.C. § 920b).
SEE BILL TEXT BELOW:
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