The Trump Administration has just proposed a new rule to make it easier for states to rush through the execution process–all while denying people certain constitutionally-protected rights and risking executions of innocent people. We have until May 15th to object to this rule and try to stop it in its tracks!
During the first Trump administration, 13 people were executed in just a few months. His administration now wants to make this possible at the state level by pushing a new rule that would allow the U.S. Attorney General to rubber stamp state applications to fast-track executions and reduce the opportunity for federal appeals.
Will you please take a few minutes now to submit a public comment saying you object to this reckless proposal?
Here is a sample letter that you can copy and paste, and then personalize:
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I object to the proposed rule changes that will make it easier for the U.S. Attorney General to approve states for fast-track executions.
We have known for a long time that the risk of executing innocent people is far too high, with more than 200 people having been exonerated from death row since 1973. Due process and federal habeas appeals help ensure that the government doesn’t take an innocent life.
Eliminating safeguards will only make it more likely that a fatal mistake will be made.
I am deeply opposed to any rule change that would allow states to fast-track their executions by disregarding safeguards and necessary constitutional protections.
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You are encouraged to personalize your public comment as much as possible by including any of the following details:
–Objections you have to the death penalty in general, including concerns about the execution of innocent individuals, the cost, police or prosecutorial misconduct, and/or systemic racism in the criminal legal system.
–You can explain that the death penalty does not improve public safety and that it takes resources away from programs that actually make us safer.
–You can express concerns about access to qualified attorneys, especially for people who cannot afford to hire their own attorney.
–You can add your faith or moral perspective.
–You can include details about your profession, where you live, your education, or political leanings.
Your voice is powerful. Tell this administration exactly why YOU don’t want to fast-track executions. Anything you submit by May 15th will be extremely valuable to this process.