Evelyn Lundberg Stratton recently reminded state lawmakers about the “evolving standards of decency” when it comes to the death penalty. The former Ohio Supreme Court justice noted that the execution of juveniles has been barred. The same applies to those with intellectual disabilities. She supports House Bill 81 that would exempt from the death penalty those diagnosed with severe mental illness at the time of the capital offense.
The measure, sponsored by state Rep. Bill Seitz, reflects the work of a task force formed by Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor. The panel of highly regarded and representative stakeholders looked for ways to improve the conduct of capital punishment. Three years have passed since it put forward 56 recommendations. Some have been enacted. Too many have not.
Read the full article at Akron Beacon Journal