SB601 Summary

• Establishes the "Death Penalty Moratorium Act" placing a stay on execution of all death penalty sentences until June 1, 2027, and prohibits the Court of Criminal Appeals from ordering executions or setting new execution dates during this period.

• Vacates all current execution dates in effect at the time the act becomes effective.

• Creates a five-member Death Penalty Reform Task Force with members appointed by legislative leaders and the Governor to study implementation of 2017 death penalty reform recommendations and report findings by November 30, 2026.

• Clarifies the moratorium does not prohibit new death penalty prosecutions or vacate existing death sentences, only stays their execution.

• Declares an emergency, making the act effective immediately upon passage and approval.