Georgia House Unanimously Backs Bill to Protect Intellectually Disabled from Death Penalty

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A bill aimed at reforming the death penalty for intellectually disabled individuals received unanimous support in the Georgia House, passing 172-0. The legislation, introduced by state Rep. Bill Werkheiser, seeks to lower the burden of proof for intellectual disability from beyond a reasonable doubt to a preponderance of the evidence, aligning Georgia with 26 other states. Advocates argue this change is necessary to prevent wrongful executions, emphasizing the moral obligation to protect vulnerable individuals in the justice system.