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Senate moves to ban gas chambers in shelters, requiring euthanasia by injection
Summary
After emotional floor debate, the Senate advanced SB 56 to require animal shelters to stop using gas chambers and adopt injection methods instead; supporters called the change more humane while opponents argued for local discretion in wildlife field euthanasia.
The Senate advanced Senate Bill 56 after discussion about methods used to euthanize animals at shelters and in the field.
Senator Knudson, sponsor, told senators the bill would ban use of gas chambers in animal shelters and require euthanasia by injection. He cited safety and humane standards, letters of support from county animal control, and training and grants available to help shelters convert away from gas chambers.
Opponents raised practical concerns. Senator Christian said from his experience he preferred firearms for euthanizing wildlife in the field and objected to the state dictating local practices. Supporters, including Senator Escamilla and others, described gas chamber use as inhumane, cited accounts of animals suffering and urged the state to require the safer, standard practice of injection.
The sponsor moved SB 56 to the third‑reading calendar and the body took a roll call; the bill was advanced for third reading for further consideration.
What happens next: SB 56 was placed on the third‑reading calendar; further votes and any amendment language will be resolved at that stage.
