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Committee approves adding firing squad and nitrogen hypoxia as options despite fierce opposition
Summary
Representative Lucas's bill would permit courts and the Department of Correction to use alternatives to lethal injection, including firing squads and nitrogen hypoxia; the measure drew sustained opposition from public defenders, the Catholic Conference and the ACLU, which raised cruelty, secrecy and constitutional concerns. The committee passed the bill 8–5.
Representative Lucas presented an amended House Bill 11‑19 expanding statutory execution methods to include firing squads and nitrogen hypoxia and adding a conscience‑clause amendment for execution team members. Lucas told the committee the bill simply provides options the Department of Correction may use given supply challenges for lethal‑injection drugs.
Opponents gave…
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