Bill > H270

This bill revises North Carolina's death penalty law by expanding execution methods and providing more flexibility for death row inmates. Specifically, the bill repeals an existing statute and amends current law to allow death row inmates to choose between three execution methods: electrocution, firing squad, or lethal injection (if available), with electrocution being the default if no election is made. The convicted person must make their method election in writing at least 14 days before the execution date, and if they do not elect or waive their right, electrocution will be used. The bill also permits the warden of Central Prison to obtain drugs for lethal injection, despite potential restrictions in existing pharmaceutical regulations. Additionally, the legislation protects healthcare professionals who assist with executions from professional disciplinary actions and ensures that execution-related identities remain confidential. The bill does not alter death sentences imposed before a specific historical date and includes a severability clause, meaning if any part of the law is found invalid, the rest of the law can still be applied. The bill becomes effective immediately upon becoming law.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H270