In House Criminal Justice today committee members will hear from members of the Jewish community, to remove gassing as a form of execution in Louisiana. In February, during a special session on crime, gassing was added as a means to carry out the death penalty. Soon after Jacquelyn Stern said the group Jews Against Gassing was formed.
“It evokes very disturbing memories, chilling memories for anyone Jewish and frankly it ought to be for anybody,” said Stern.
Senate Bill 430, passed in the upper chamber after a 22-16 vote. Stern said when members of her group were able to talk directly to lawmakers, many she said did not realize how triggering the use of gas as a form of execution was for Jews.
“And so hopefully as a collective body they will understand and do something that feels right for the Jewish community and right for Louisiana,” said Stern.
Stern said for a state that is home to the National World War II Museum, it feels like many lawmakers are quick to forget what veterans fought for.
“It feels to me like we’re turning our backs on WWII if we don’t recognize this for what it is,” said Stern.
Stern said they have yet to hear back from Governor Jeff Landry’s office if he will sign the bill if it reaches his desk.
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