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 approved by the director of the Idaho Department of Correction. Additionally, it establishes a certification process for the director to confirm the availability of the chosen method of execution.

The bill also includes provisions for situations where the director does not certify the availability of the firing squad, allowing for lethal injection to 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 changes will apply to all executions carried out after the effective date of July 1, 2026, regardless of when the sentence was imposed.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 19-2716