The Missouri House has given preliminary approval to legislation intended to address some of the concerns raised by a federal judge who has, in effect, halted executions in his state.
Representative Danie Moore (R-Fulton) sponsors HB 820 , which would eliminate much of the secrecy of the execution protocol, but would keep confidential the names of state employees and medical personnel involved in the administration of executions.
Representative John Burnett (D-Kansas City) has concerns about the legislation. And, he points out that opposition has brought together some odd bedfellows. The American Civil Liberties Union and the Missouri Catholic Conference have long been opponents of capital punishment. The Missouri Press Association maintains it should have the right to disseminate the information regarding those involved in the execution process.
Burnett says the whole idea of concealing the identities of executioners to protect them is ludicrous. He believes those involved in the process are the last people vulnerable to pressure.
One more positive vote in the House sends the legislation to the Senate.