This bill amends Section 19-2716 of the Idaho Code to revise the methods of execution for capital punishment. The new language introduces the option of execution by firing squad as a permissible method, while removing lethal injection as a specified method. The bill outlines that the punishment of death may be inflicted by either a firing squad or through the continuous intravenous administration of a lethal substance, as determined by the director of the Idaho Department of Correction. Additionally, the bill establishes a certification process for the director to confirm the availability of the chosen method of execution.

The amendments also stipulate that if the director does not certify the availability of the firing squad, or fails to file the required certification, lethal injection will be used instead. Furthermore, if a court finds that the firing squad is unconstitutional, lethal injection will be mandated as the method of execution. The provisions of this bill will apply to all executions carried out after its effective date of July 1, 2026, regardless of when the sentence was imposed.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 19-2716