Texas Lawmakers to Discuss Repealing Death Penalty

Texas lawmakers will hear testimony on a bill to repeal the death penalty.

A Democratic lawmaker from Houston has introduced the measure, and the House Criminal Justice committee will consider it on Monday.

Rep. Jessica Farrar and some other Democrats have repeatedly called for an end to the death penalty. But the ultimate punishment remains popular in Texas, and her measure is unlikely to gain traction.

Activists say the risk of executing an innocent person is too high to continue executing people. Texas has one of the highest exoneration rates in the country and recently released innocent men from death row.

Supporters say there are some crimes that are so heinous the death penalty is the best option. Both sides are expected to testify before lawmakers.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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