Illinois May Ban Gassing of Pets

By Kevin Robinson in News on May 13, 2008 8:55PM

Last week the Illinois State House of Representatives approved HB 4844, which bans the gassing of unwanted pets at animal shelters. While many shelters use lethal injection to put down unwanted pets, there are still some that use carbon monoxide to euthanize companion animals. The bill passed the House 110-0, with some members vocally supporting the legislation. "What's been happening with the animals is really a disgusting practice," said state Rep. Lou Lang.

The bill also restricts who can get a euthanasia technician license, prohibiting people with animal abuse and drug-related convictions from obtaining one. “In a perfect world, the need to euthanize animals wouldn’t exist,” said Rep. John Fritchey, who sponsored the bill. “But in those cases where it is going to be done, any sense of decency should tell us that this is simply not the method to use.” The bill is under consideration in the state Senate now.