This bill amends several sections of the Reissue Revised Statutes of Nebraska to introduce execution by nitrogen hypoxia as an alternative method to lethal injection for carrying out death sentences. It defines key terms related to the execution process, including "Department," "Director," "lethal injection," and "nitrogen hypoxia." The bill specifies that the Department of Correctional Services will determine the method of execution, which can be either lethal injection or nitrogen hypoxia, and outlines the responsibilities of the Director in creating and maintaining execution protocols.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions that ensure the confidentiality of the execution team members and protects them from disciplinary actions related to their participation in executions. It clarifies that the execution will take place under the supervision of the Director at a designated facility, with specific individuals permitted to be present during the execution. The bill also states that a death sentence will not be voided or reduced if a method of execution is deemed unconstitutional, ensuring that the sentence remains enforceable until a lawful method can be applied. The original sections of the law being amended are repealed as part of this legislative update.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 83-964, 83-965, 83-966, 83-967, 83-968, 83-969, 83-970, 83-971, 83-972