HB495 (Capital Felony Case Amendments)

HB495 modifies competency proceedings in capital felony cases, removing important protections for individuals with intellectual disabilities by: requiring initial IQ tests and penalizing defendants who object to them, changing the criteria and process for automatic review of death sentences, creating expedited review timelines, and creating barriers for appeal and ineffective assistance of counsel challenges. HB495 also eliminates important protections for individuals with significant disabilities who are more likely to give false confessions, even when the confession is not supported by substantial evidence. This bill prioritizes speed above due process, accuracy, and a fair criminal legal system.