Proposed Legislation

Gas Chambers

purpose:

eliminate inhumane method; reduce liability risk; reduce worker stress; teach respect for and value of life; eliminate mindset that shelter animals are unwanted disposables
   
now: 21 shelters/pounds presently have CO gas chambers; 19 of the 21 actively use the CO gas chambers for euthanasia; 11 of the 19 using gas chambers report taking initial steps to transition to euthanasia by injection, but as of 12/04, CO gas chambers are used in 19 shelters/pounds
   
change: outlaw such use
  1. all shelters/pounds presently using gas chambers must cease use thereof by 10/1/05
  1. shelters/pounds may by special exception granted by the State Veterinarian for good cause shown use gas chambers after 10/1/05 provided that liability/worker’s compensation coverage is secured and the mayor, city manager, or county administrator certifies personally under penalty of perjury (and assumes personal liability in the event of breach) that all state and federal regulations governing CO storage, administration and safety measures are complied with at all times
  1. private funds of $25,000 disbursed in an amount not to exceed $1,500 per facility will be available to defray transition cost

January 6, 2004