HB205 Alabama 2017 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Merika ColemanSenator

Democrat

Session

Regular Session 2017

Title

Death penalty, moratorium on imposition and execution not to exceed three years, procedure for administering

Summary

HB205 would pause the death penalty in Alabama for three years while the state implements procedures to ensure fair, impartial administration and reduce wrongful executions.

What This Bill Does

It imposes a three-year moratorium on both the imposition and execution of the death penalty. During the moratorium, it requires implementing specific fairness procedures: the ABA Guidelines for defense counsel in death penalty cases, enhanced post-conviction relief procedures, measures to eliminate racial discrimination in capital sentencing, and due process protections to prevent executing people with intellectual disabilities. The changes would take effect on the first day of the third month after the bill becomes law.

Who It Affects

• Death-row inmates and defendants facing death penalties would experience a three-year pause on any new death sentences or executions.
• Defense attorneys, judges, prosecutors, and the state would need to adopt and follow the ABA guidelines and the specified due process and anti-discrimination procedures to ensure fair treatment in capital cases.

Key Provisions

• A three-year moratorium on the imposition or execution of the death penalty.
• During the moratorium, implement the following: (1) ABA Guidelines for the Appointment and Performance of Defense Counsel in Death Penalty Cases; (2) due process procedures to preserve and enhance post-conviction relief in death sentence cases; (3) procedures to eliminate discrimination in capital sentencing based on the race of the victim or defendant; (4) due process procedures to prevent execution of persons with intellectual disabilities.
• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and governor approval.

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

Subjects

Death Penalty