Lawmaker Pushes For Alternative Execution Method

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — 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.

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