The Trump Administration’s resumption of federal executions has begun. Three took place in July, and two more are scheduled for this coming August 26 and 28.
Legislation of concern is active in the the following states. If you live in these states, please follow the link to join the state anti-death penalty organization or campaign. Follow their lead, contact your state legislators, volunteer and/or donate. If you know people who live in these states, invite them to do so as well.
Alabama – Dangerous death penalty expansion legislation is proposed
Colorado – Death penalty repeal legislation is moving.Abolition bill passed on Feb 26, 2020!
Delaware – Re-introduction bill is under consideration
Iowa – Re-introduction bill is under consideration
Kentucky – Severe mental illness restriction legislation is pending
Louisiana – Bill to abolish the death penalty is expected this session
Ohio – Severe mental illness restriction legislation is pending and repeal of the death penalty is a real conversation
Utah – Death penalty repeal legislation is to be considered
Virginia – Severe mental illness restriction legislation is pending and repeal of the death penalty is a real conversation in 2021
West Virginia – Death penalty reintroduction attempts have been stopped for the current session
Wyoming – Death penalty repeal legislation may be considered in 2021
CURRENT CAMPAIGNS & EVENTS
VOICES OF EXPERIENCE – LIVE STREAM: Featuring interviews with leading death penalty abolitionists from varying perspectives. Watch our archives of videos with death row exonerees, murder victim family members, law enforcement, movement leaders, clergy, and more.
REMEMBERING JERRY GIVENS: Jerry Givens, a former executioner who dedicated his life to ending the death penalty, died of COVID-19 on April 13, 2020. Read more here. Additionally, his family has asked that tribute gifts in Jerry’s memory be made to Death Penalty Action as a way to continue Jerry’s legacy and work to end executions.
RED LETTER CHRISTIAN ACTIONS: Partnering with Red Letter Christians, DPA invites you to take action in a number of ways, including connecting with Shane Claiborne. Find out more here.
TENNESSEE’S MARCH4MERCY: Following the recent surge of executions under Governor Bill Lee, the Tennessee March4Mercy is organizing public actions for each execution. Act now to stop upcoming executions in TN. Details and action opportunities are here.
The Sheppard Experience Project: Launched on July 5, this project will share the 1954 headline of the day from Sam R. Sheppard from July 5, 1954 to January 8, 1955. Join us on this journey every day between now and January 8, 2020.
