RESPONSE TO THE FINAL REPORT OF THE GOVERNOR’S COMMISSION ON ADMINISTRATION OF LETHAL INJECTION

RESPONSE TO THE FINAL REPORT OF THE GOVERNOR’S COMMISSION ON ADMINISTRATION OF LETHAL INJECTION

March 2, 2007

Contact:

ERIN ISAAC
(850) 488-5394

“The Commission’s final report provides objective directions for our state to improve the process by which we administer lethal injection. Each recommendation is based on a thorough review of current policies, and I intend to advance these suggestions with a thoughtful assessment of their implications to existing Department of Corrections protocol.

“Today I am directing Corrections Secretary Jim McDonough to conduct an analysis of lethal injection procedures employed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons and 37 other states that use lethal injection as a method of capital punishment. The Department’s findings will expand the perspective needed for future action on this issue.

“Further, I am requesting Secretary McDonough to review the recommendations of the Commission and identify concerns the Department finds necessary to address prior to implementation.

“I value the Commission’s commitment to finding and setting the highest standard of integrity for our state’s lethal injection procedure. I appreciate the careful considerations reflected in the final report.”