Senate approves bill letting wildlife rehabilitation centers access limited euthanasia medications

The Ohio Senate on May 20 passed Senate Bill 152 to allow wild animal rehabilitation facilities (WARFs) to receive a limited license to administer euthanasia drugs, sponsors said, so injured or diseased native wildlife may be humanely euthanized when rehabilitation is not possible.

Senator Brenner, sponsor of the bill, said current code does not permit WARFs access to medications necessary for humane euthanasia and that the legislation would correct an omission made during earlier code changes. "Senate Bill 152 would add WARFs to the list of entities permitted to access these medications," Brenner said, adding that the facilities would be required to meet the same pharmacy and safety standards as other entities and to maintain personnel who have completed a euthanasia technician certification course.

Brenner cited a 2023 figure from the Division of Wildlife that 34,044 orphaned or injured animals were admitted to centers across the state and said the Ohio Wildlife Center rehabilitates roughly 8,500 animals a year. Senator Liston, who spoke in support, described the center’s outreach and educational programs and said the center cares for close to 9,000 animals annually, noting the centers’ role in public education and in correctional-system nursing programs.

The Senate passed the bill by roll call, 33 yeas and 0 nays. The floor debate focused on animal welfare and on statutory alignment with pharmacy and certification requirements; floor remarks did not specify new appropriations or licensing fees on the record.

Sponsors said the bill would allow WARFs to humanely provide end-of-life care when animals are injured beyond rehabilitation, while requiring compliance with existing pharmacy and personnel standards.