Lawmaker pushes for alternative execution method
BATON ROUGE - A state lawmaker is pushing for Louisiana to consider alternatives to lethal injection in response to a nationwide shortage of the drugs used to execute prisoners.
Metairie Rep. Joe Lopinto has a resolution that would direct the Department of Corrections to recommend alternative execution methods if drugs cannot be found. A House committee will debate the idea Wednesday.
Corrections Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc refused an interview request. In a statement Monday his office wouldn't offer suggestions about what types of alternatives should be considered.
Some states have authorized alternatives, but only if lethal injection is ruled unconstitutional or a prisoner choses it, according to Richard Dieter, of the Death Penalty Information Center. At least four other states are considering other execution options.