Modifies provisions relating to jury instructions for the offense of murder in the first degree

HB 2348 changes the trial process for first-degree murder cases where the death penalty is not waived. It requires a two-stage trial: first, a jury or judge decides guilt (without considering punishment), and second, if convicted, they determine punishment based on specific legal standards. The bill mandates life imprisonment without parole if the jury finds the defendant intellectually disabled, lacks sufficient aggravating factors, or determines mitigating evidence outweighs aggravating factors. It also clarifies jury instructions for cases where punishment is disputed, including procedures if the jury cannot agree on a sentence. This applies only to offenses committed on or after August 28, 2001.