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Death Penalty Appeals: New Rules for Evidence of Innocence.

This law aims to strengthen legal protections for individuals sentenced to death who may be innocent. It introduces new rules allowing federal courts to review cases if strong, newly discovered evidence suggests the convicted person is likely not guilty of the underlying crime. These changes provide citizens facing the death penalty a greater opportunity for a fair appeal process and protection against wrongful execution.
Key points
Federal courts can overturn a death sentence if new evidence, combined with trial evidence, shows the convicted person is probably not guilty.
Allows for filing subsequent federal appeals (after the first one) if new evidence of innocence is discovered.
Death row inmates can present new facts in federal court if their state post-conviction lawyer was ineffective and state law prevented earlier claims.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_9868
Sponsor: Rep. Johnson, Henry C. "Hank" [D-GA-4]
Process start date: 2024-09-27
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_HR_9868.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-09-27.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Federal courts can overturn a death sentence if new evidence, combined with trial evidence, shows the convicted person is probably not guilty.
  • Allows for filing subsequent federal appeals (after the first one) if new evidence of innocence is discovered.
  • Death row inmates can present new facts in federal court if their state post-conviction lawyer was ineffective and state law prevented earlier claims.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Johnson, Henry C. "Hank" [D-GA-4].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

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