Tennessee – The Tennessee Department of Correction has completed a comprehensive revision of its lethal injection protocol, transitioning to the use of the single drug pentobarbital. Executions in the state had been paused since May 2022, following Governor Bill Lee’s order for an independent review of the procedures and the appointment of new leadership to oversee the process.
Commissioner Frank Strada, who took office in January 2023, spearheaded the development of the revised protocol. The process was conducted in collaboration with the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office to ensure adherence to state laws and departmental policies.
“I am confident the lethal injection process can proceed in compliance with departmental policy and state laws,” Commissioner Strada stated.
The Tennessee Supreme Court holds the authority to schedule execution dates under the revised protocol.