Associated Press
Florida lawmakers are trying for the second year in a row to fix the state’s death penalty law.
The Senate on Thursday voted unanimously to require a unanimous jury decision to impose the death penalty. The House is also prepared for a vote on the issue. It could be the first major bill sent to Gov. Rick Scott this year.
The U.S. Supreme Court in January 2016 declared the state’s death penalty sentencing law unconstitutional because it gave too much power to judges.
Last year, a bill requiring a 10-2 jury vote was enacted. The state Supreme Court struck it down in October, saying a unanimous decision was needed.
The Republican-dominated Legislature isn’t happy about having to make the fix, but lawmakers say their hands are tied by the court.
Republished with permission of The Associated Press.
