alternatives authorized under Subchapter C of Chapter 97
(relating to sentencing alternatives) or correctional
programs authorized by 61 Pa.C.S. Pt. III (relating to
inmate confinement) that is recommended by the
commission.
* * *
Section 2. Section 2154(a) of Title 42 is amended and the
section is amended by adding a subsection to read:
§ 2154. Adoption of guidelines for sentencing.
(a) General rule.--The commission shall adopt guidelines for
sentencing within the limits established by law which shall be
considered by the sentencing court in determining the
appropriate sentence for defendants who plead guilty or nolo
contendere to, or who were found guilty of, felonies and
misdemeanors. In adopting guidelines, the commission shall
recommend confinement that is consistent with the protection of
the public, the gravity of the offense as it relates to the
impact on the life of the victim and the community and the
rehabilitative needs of the offender. The guidelines shall
address the following:
(1) Seriousness of the offense, by specifying the range
of sentences applicable to crimes of a given degree of
gravity, including incapacitation of serious violent
offenders.
(2) Criminal history, by specifying a range of sentences
of increased severity for offenders previously convicted of
or adjudicated delinquent for one or more misdemeanor or
felony offenses committed prior to the current offense.
(3) Criminal behavior, by specifying a range of
sentences of increased severity for offenders who pose a
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