Political Updates
Chapter Nine: Laws, Courts, and Justice

Capital Punishment, pg. 381

The alternative punishment of life without parole for capital offenses is available for federal capital crimes and in 34 states. In 2001, the Texas Legislature considered this sentencing option for Texas's capital felons. Although passed by the Texas Senate, the bill failed in the Texas House of Representatives. Governor Rick Perry vetoed legislation that would have prohibited the execution of mentally retarded capital felons.