Gov. Scott signs into law overhaul of Florida death penalty
Source: Associated Press
Gov. Scott signs into law overhaul of Florida death penalty
Brendan Farrington, Associated Press
Updated 2:53 pm, Monday, March 7, 2016
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Florida Gov. Rick Scott signed into law a major overhaul of Florida's death penalty on Monday in response to a U.S. Supreme Court decision declaring the previous system unconstitutional.
The new law requires at least 10 out of 12 jurors recommend execution for it to be carried out. Florida previously required that a majority of jurors recommend the death sentence. The law was found unconstitutional in January because jurors served an advisory role while judges had the final say in death penalty cases.
"It is my solemn duty to uphold the laws of Florida and my foremost concern is always for the victims and their loved ones. I hope this legislation will allow families of these horrific crimes to get the closure they deserve," Scott said in a statement released by his office.
The law took effect as soon as Scott signed the bill. While judges can lower a death sentence recommendation to life in some circumstances, they will not be able to impose a death penalty without at least a 10-2 jury decision.
Read more: http://www.chron.com/news/us/article/Gov-Scott-signs-into-law-overhaul-of-Florida-6874784.php
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