Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that limits the use of carbon monoxide gas for animal euthanasia.

Highlights:

• Prohibits an animal shelter from using carbon monoxide gas as a form of euthanasia on an animal, unless another method of euthanasia meets the following conditions (Sec. 2):
• The other method is unsafe to the individual who performs the procedure; or
• The other method causes an “unacceptable” level of stress for the animal.

• Requires an animal shelter to use a form of euthanasia that is approved by the most current version of the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Guidelines on Euthanasia (Sec. 2).

• Authorizes an animal control officer who is contracted with the animal shelter to use carbon monoxide gas as a form of euthanasia if he or she is required to euthanize an animal in an emergency situation outside the premise of the shelter (Sec. 2).   

• Requires an animal shelter that uses a carbon monoxide chamber as a form of euthanasia to euthanize 1 animal at a time, unless the chamber has multiple compartments designed to hold 1 animal per compartment (Sec. 2).

• Requires an animal shelter to hold a euthanasia training program every 2 years for individuals who conduct or assist with euthanasia at the shelter and to keep a record of the attendees and dates of the training program (Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text