AL SB172

Establishes "Beckham's Act" and amends Alabama Code Section 34-29-131 to prohibit gas chambers for euthanizing dogs and cats at animal shelters.

Requires sodium pentobarbital, sodium pentobarbital derivatives, or other authorized injectable agents acting on the central nervous system as the only means of euthanasia for dogs and cats.

Permits carbon monoxide and inhalant anesthetics as acceptable alternatives only for individual animals or mass euthanasia of small animals other than dogs or cats, with rules governing chamber type, training, and safety requirements.

Requires euthanasia to be performed by licensed veterinarians or trained facility employees/agents who have completed a board-approved euthanasia technician certification course covering pharmacology, drug regulations, OSHA safety, stress management, and proper disposal.

Mandates animal shelters operating gas chambers prior to January 1, 2012 must dismantle and remove them within 30 days after that date and provide documentation to the board; act becomes effective December 31, 2011.