RALEIGH, NC (WBTV) -
The NC House unanimously passed the bill known as Kilah's Law with 118 votes on Tuesday.
If passed, the bill would permit harsher sentences for those who inflict permanent physical debilitating injuries on a child.
Rep. Craig Horn, a Republican from Union County, is a primary sponsor of the bill.
The law is being sought after the alleged May 16 beating of three year old Kilah Davenport by her stepfather.
As a result of the beating, the Union County girl sustained a broken clavicle, fractured skull, and damage to 90 percent of her brain.
The stepfather was arrested and charged with felony child abuse, inflicting serious bodily injury. He is currently in the Union County Jail under a $1 million bond.
If passed, the law will raise the sentencing guidelines for anyone who causes the permanent debilitating physical injury of a child. Currently this crime falls under a Class C felony with a 44-92 month possible sentence.
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