LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Jim Runestad on Thursday introduced legislation to strengthen accountability for individuals convicted of criminal sexual conduct (CSC) offenses in Michigan.

“This is a massive oversight,” said Runestad, R-White Lake. “Criminal sexual conduct crimes are among the most serious offenses, and those who commit them should face meaningful consequences. My bill ensures that all individuals convicted of CSC crimes, regardless of degree, are held fully accountable.”

Under current law, only individuals convicted of first- or third-degree CSC are ineligible for probation. This leaves a significant gap in the justice system, allowing individuals convicted of other CSC offenses to potentially avoid incarceration.

Runestad’s bill, Senate Bill 902, would eliminate eligibility for probation across all degrees of CSC convictions, closing what the senator describes as a dangerous loophole and ensuring consistency in sentencing.

“Victims deserve justice, and our laws must reflect the severity of these crimes,” Runestad said. “If passed, this bill will send a clear message: Michigan will not tolerate sexual violence, and those who commit these crimes will face the full extent of the law.”

SB 902 was referred to the Senate Committee on Judiciary for further consideration.

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