ATLANTA, Ga. (AP) - Georgia lawmakers are considering legislation that would classify the names of companies that supply execution drugs as a "confidential state secret."
The language was added in the Senate to a bill sponsored by Rep. Kevin Tanner. It passed the Senate March 22 and returns to the House.
It would prevent the disclosure of information that reveals the name and contact information of any person or entity who participates in an execution. That includes any company that manufactures, supplies, compounds or prescribes the drugs. The proposed legislation would also keep the information from being released to the public or media.
Supporters say it's necessary to protect the people and companies involved in court-ordered executions. But critics say it violates government transparency surrounding a very serious act, taking someone's life.
