The bill amends Arkansas law to include nitrogen gas as an additional method of execution for individuals sentenced to death. Specifically, it modifies Arkansas Code 5-4-615 and 5-4-617 to allow for execution by nitrogen gas alongside the existing method of lethal injection. The amendments specify that the Division of Correction will carry out the death sentence either by lethal injection or nitrogen gas, and it requires the Director of the Division of Correction to notify the condemned prisoner of the chosen method of execution within seven days of receiving a warrant from the Governor.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions to protect the confidentiality of individuals and entities involved in the execution process, including those who supply drugs or equipment for lethal injections or nitrogen gas executions. It also establishes that a death sentence will not be reduced if a method of execution is deemed unconstitutional, ensuring that the sentence remains in force until it can be lawfully executed by a valid method. The bill further provides immunity to individuals involved in the administration of either method of execution and outlines penalties for unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information related to the execution process.

Statutes affected:
HB 1489: 5-4-615, 5-4-617, 25-15-201, 25-19-101, 19-10-305, 5-10-106(a)
Act 302: 5-4-615, 5-4-617, 25-15-201, 25-19-101, 19-10-305, 5-10-106(a)