On military tribunals

Quietly, officials are making needed changes to the guidelines issued last year regarding the use of military tribunals to try terrorism suspects.

The changes would reverse the most objectionable features of an executive order issued by President Bush that authorized the tribunals. It also demonstrates the administration's willingness to correct mistakes.

According to the report, major changes include: Defendants would be presumed innocent until prove guilty. And evidentiary standards would be tightened to require a conviction based on guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The death penalty would require a unanimous vote of the hearing panel, instead of a two-thirds vote.

Appeals would be allowed, perhaps using a three-judge panel that might include retired civilian judges.

The final plan has not been released. But if it follows the proposed changes, it will better reflect American ideals of justice and the rule of law.

-- Pensacola News Journal, Florida