The General Assembly's passage this week of a law aimed at punishing second-time child rapists with the death penalty satisfies an emotional reaction against such crimes. But the law could subject otherwise solid convictions to lengthy legal challenges.

The bill opens the possibility of capital punishment -- and demands at least a life sentence -- for anyone convicted a second time of sexual battery of a child younger than 11. While the immediate, visceral urge to put these people to death is understandable, restraint is needed.

Saying so does not excuse the destructive acts of child molesters. Their heinous crimes demand tough penalties so they cannot repeat their offenses. To that end, the heart of this legislation is a much less publicized provision increasing the penalty for first-time offenders from a minimum of 10 years in prison to a minimum of 25 years with no suspended sentences or probation. That's an appropriate penalty, and should apply to all sexual offenses against a minor, regardless of the victim's age.

This state has a duty to protect children from repeat sex offenders. Locking away these predators for a long time after a first offense is the only way to prevent them from becoming repeat offenders. That is where the emphasis ought to be.