It is time to end capital punishment in our state.

Several years ago, I concluded that we should repeal the death penalty.  The reason: the time and money spent litigating and legislating on this issue should be put to far better use.

Keeping people safe where they live, work, and play is one of the primary obligations of government.  The resources diverted to the death penalty limit our capacity to fulfill that requirement.

House Bill 949 would repeal the death penalty.  It would also require that $500,000 be budgeted for the State Victims of Crime Fund, to assist the family members  of murder victims, with funds that would no longer be spent on trials where the death penalty is sought.

Sixty-six members of the House are sponsoring this bill, a record level of support.

If you oppose the death penalty, write Governor O’Malley.  He and the General Assembly must put an end to capital punishment in 2012.