Relating to the applicability of the death penalty to a capital offense committed by a person with an intellectual disability.
Impact
If enacted, HB688 would create a specific legal framework to assess whether a defendant qualifies as having an intellectual disability, which would exempt them from the death penalty. The bill establishes a clear definition of intellectual disability, requiring that the condition significantly impairs the defendant's general intellectual functioning alongside deficiencies in adaptive behavior. This direct alteration of the law will impact how capital cases are prosecuted and adjudicated, particularly in the context of sentencing.
Summary
House Bill 688 focuses on the applicability of the death penalty in cases involving individuals with intellectual disabilities. The bill seeks to amend existing laws in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure to explicitly restrict the imposition of the death penalty on defendants who meet the criteria for an intellectual disability. This change aligns Texas law with broader legal principles that aim to prevent the execution of individuals who are deemed unable to fully comprehend their actions due to their disabilities.
Contention
The bill introduces noteworthy discussions about the intersection of mental health and criminal justice. While supporters argue that this measure is a necessary step towards a more humane legal system, acknowledging the vulnerabilities of individuals with intellectual disabilities, opponents may raise concerns about the potential for abuse or misinterpretation of the definitions provided. Moreover, there could be apprehensions regarding the implications for public safety and how a death penalty exemption might influence jury decisions in capital cases.
Relating to the terminology used in statute to refer to intellectual disability and certain references to abolished health and human services agencies.