Idaho lawmakers push for firing squad executions as Bryan Kohberger’s trial looms.
At a Glance
- Idaho House Bill 37 proposes making firing squad the main execution method
- The bill has advanced to the House floor after committee approval
- Supporters argue firing squads are more reliable and humane than lethal injection
- The legislation coincides with the upcoming trial of Bryan Kohberger
- If passed, Idaho would be the first state to use firing squad as primary execution method
Idaho Lawmakers Advance Firing Squad Bill
Idaho’s legislative body has taken a significant step towards changing the state’s primary method of execution. House Bill 37, which proposes making firing squads the main method of capital punishment, has advanced to the Idaho House floor after passing the Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee. The bill’s progression comes at a time when the state faces challenges with lethal injection protocols and as the high-profile case of Bryan Kohberger, accused of murdering four University of Idaho students, moves toward trial.
Representative Bruce Skaug, the bill’s sponsor, has been vocal about the perceived benefits of firing squads over lethal injection.
Skaug argues that this method is not only more reliable but also more humane than current practices. The proposed legislation calls for a “mechanized” and automated firing squad, addressing concerns about the efficacy and availability of lethal injection drugs.
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The timing of this legislative push coincides with the approaching trial of Bryan Kohberger, charged with the murders of four University of Idaho students. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for Kohberger, who faces charges of first-degree murder and felony burglary. The case has reignited discussions about capital punishment in Idaho and the methods used to carry it out.
“I, along with many others, believe the firing squad is more certain, has less appellate issues, and is more humane than other forms of execution,” Rep. Bruce Skaug said.
Kohberger’s trial, scheduled for later this year, has entered the plea phase with the defendant entering not guilty pleas through a judge at his arraignment. The potential for Kohberger to face execution by firing squad, if convicted, has brought increased attention to House Bill 37 and the broader debate on execution methods.
Debate Over Execution Methods
The push for firing squads as the primary method of execution in Idaho is not without controversy. While supporters argue it is a quicker and more certain method, providing justice for victims and their families, opponents view it as cruel and inhumane. Currently, only Idaho, Utah, South Carolina, Oklahoma, and Mississippi allow firing squads, but none use it as the primary method of execution.
“At first when you hear firing squad, if you’re not familiar with the history, you think ‘well that sounds barbaric’ is what I’ve heard from some,” Rep. Skaug also said.
The bill must clear several hurdles before becoming law. It needs to pass both the Idaho House and Senate and avoid a Governor’s veto.
