Texas allows the execution of mentally retarded and...

Texas allows the execution of mentally retarded and juvenile offenders of 17 years and above. It has life without parole.
In June 2001, Governor Rick Perry signed the Texas Fair Defence Act that sets up regulations to ensure timely appointments, minimum standards, and fair methods of appointing defence lawyers.
A jury decides the sentence.
The Governor needs a favourable recommendation from the Board of Pardons and Paroles in order to be able to grant clemency.
The Governor is not obligated to follow the recommendation of the Board.
The Governor also has the power to grant a thirty day reprieve.