Idaho is set to begin executing inmates by firing squad in cases where the state is unable to obtain lethal injection drugs. The move will make Idaho the fifth state to reauthorize executions by firing squad. As fewer and fewer pharmacies are willing to sell execution drugs to states, increasing numbers have opted to pivot—at least in theory—to alternate methods of killing death-row inmates.
H.B. 186, a bill to reinstate execution by firing squad was passed on Monday with a veto-proof majority of the state's Legislature. While the bill would mandate execution by firing squad in cases where lethal injection drugs are not available, it also contains a provision stating that firing squad will become the state's default method of execution should lethal injection be ruled unconstitutional.
