HB18 Alabama 2015 Session

Updated Feb 24, 2026

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Lynn Greer
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2015
Title: Death penalty, execution by electrocution required under certain conditions, Sec. 15-18-82.1 am'd.
Summary: The bill changes who decides how death sentences are carried out, making electrocution more likely under certain conditions and outlining when lethal injection can be avoided.
What This Bill Does
It keeps lethal injection as the default method unless the inmate elects electrocution, with a written 30-day deadline after judgment. For people sentenced after the act’s effective date, electrocution must be used if lethal injection is ruled unconstitutional or if essential lethal-injection drugs are unavailable through no fault of the Department of Corrections. If higher courts say a method is unconstitutional, or refuse to review, death sentences can be carried out by any constitutional method. The bill also addresses drug handling, confidentiality for those involved in executions, and states that changes in method do not automatically change punishments.

Who It Affects
People sentenced to death (defendants) and their chosen or mandated method of execution, including new sentences after the act’s effective date.
Department of Corrections, wardens, and personnel involved in carrying out executions (including suppliers and medical staff), who must implement the election process, manage drug use, and handle related confidentiality rules.

Key Provisions
Specific provision 1: Death sentences remain by lethal injection unless the inmate affirmatively elects electrocution, with a written election delivered to the warden within 30 days after judgment (with specific historic waivers for certain dates).
Specific provision 2: For sentences after the effective date, electrocution is required if lethal injection is unconstitutional or if essential ingredients for lethal injection are unavailable through no fault of the Department of Corrections.
Specific provision 3: If the Alabama Supreme Court or United States Supreme Court declares either method unconstitutional, or declines to review, all death sentences may be carried out by any constitutional method.
Specific provision 4: Provisions regarding drug handling, confidentiality of suppliers and staff involved in executions, and statements that such changes do not increase punishment or reduce the sentence.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Crimes and Offenses