The Trump administration has approved the use of firing squads for federal executions. The Justice Department also reauthorized a key drug used in lethal injections.
Officials announced the policy change on Friday. The move will allow the federal government to execute death row inmates by firing squad when lethal injection drugs are unavailable.
The department additionally plans to shorten the length of certain legal appeals. This change aims to expedite the process for carrying out death sentences.
Critics argue the new methods violate constitutional protections against cruel and unusual punishment. Legal challenges are expected to follow the announcement.
Supporters of the policy claim it ensures the justice system can carry out sentences effectively. They point to ongoing shortages of lethal injection drugs as a practical necessity.
The decision marks a significant shift in federal execution protocols. It is the first time firing squads have been authorized at the federal level.
The administration also reauthorized the use of pentobarbital for lethal injections. The drug has been in short supply due to manufacturer restrictions.
Further details on implementation timelines remain unclear. The Justice Department has not specified which cases will be affected first.
