Senate panel hears bill to abolish death penalty

Senate panel hears bill to abolish death penalty

STEPHEN DOCKERY, Associated Press

HELENA — State lawmakers are again considering a proposal to abolish the death penalty in Montana for life in prison without parole.

If passed, the measure would go into effect immediately and change the sentences of two inmates currently on death row in Montana.

Senate Bill 185 sponsored by Democratic state Sen. David Wanzenried of Missoula drew emotional testimony from supporters and opponents of the measure Tuesday before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Family members of murder victims, church leaders, state prosecutors, jail wardens and legislators all testified for or against the bill.

A similar measure failed to pass the Legislature last session. Wanzenried is hopeful this bill will pass session despite large Republican majorities in the House and Senate.

HELENA — State lawmakers are again considering a proposal to abolish the death penalty in Montana for life in prison without parole.

If passed, the measure would go into effect immediately and change the sentences of two inmates currently on death row in Montana.

Senate Bill 185 sponsored by Democratic state Sen. David Wanzenried of Missoula drew emotional testimony from supporters and opponents of the measure Tuesday before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Family members of murder victims, church leaders, state prosecutors, jail wardens and legislators all testified for or against the bill.

A similar measure failed to pass the Legislature last session. Wanzenried is hopeful this bill will pass session despite large Republican majorities in the House and Senate.