USA - Utah. The House passed 39-34 HB11, a firing squad bill

The House passed 39-34 HB11, a firing squad bill. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Paul Ray, R, would legalize firing squad executions in Utah if drugs needed for lethal injections aren't available 30 days before the date of the death warrant or if lethal injection executions become unconstitutional. Rep. Brian King, D, opposed the bill, saying firing squad executions are "barbaric" and will damage Utah's image. The bill now advances to the Senate for further consideration. Senate President Wayne Niederhauser, R, said it's too early to predict whether the firing squad bill will pass the Senate. Senate Minority Caucus Manager Jim Dabakis, D, said he opposes the death penalty and doesn't like the bill. But, he suggested, if it's going to be considered, it should be amended to require executions be broadcast over the Internet for all to see. "If we do it, let's stream it live," Dabakis said. "If the purpose of it is for deterrence and we're willing to live with the death penalty, maybe we ought to get it out there. It seems a bit barbaric these days, but we're going to have to deal with it."