(a) In enacting this subchapter, it is the intent of the General Assembly to specify the procedures and standards pursuant to which a sentencing body shall conform in making a determination as to whether a sentence of death is to be imposed upon a conviction for capital murder, § 5-10-101, treason, § 5-51-201, or capital rape, § 5-14-114.
(b) If the provisions of this subchapter respecting sentencing procedures are held invalid with regard to the imposition of a sentence of death or a sentence of death is declared to be invalid per se, it is the intent of the General Assembly that capital murder, § 5-10-101, treason, § 5-51-201, and capital rape, § 5-14-114, are punishable by life imprisonment without parole.
(c) As used in this subchapter, “capital offense” means capital murder, § 5-10-101, treason, § 5-51-201, and capital rape, § 5-14-114.