MASSACHUSETTS (USA). HOUSE LAWMAKERS REJECT DEATH PENALTY BILL

November 7, 2007: House lawmakers overwhelmingly reject a bill to reinstate the death penalty in Massachusetts.
The 110-46 vote effectively kills any chance of the bill becoming law this session and reflects a growing opposition to the death penalty on Beacon Hill.
Supporters of the bill say the state should reserve the right to capital punishment in the most heinous cases where there is no doubt of guilt.
Critics say the death penalty is costly, immoral and used disproportionately against racial minorities. Gov. Patrick had promised to veto the measure.
The bill mirrors an earlier bill by former Gov. Romney to create a national death penalty "gold standard."
House lawmakers rejected Romney's bill by a by a 99-to-53 vote. (Sources: Ap, 07/11/2007)