There are 27 states in which the death penalty is still legal. Ohio Gov. Mike Dewine would like to make it 26. Last week he said he believed the death penalty should be abolished in the Buckeye State.

His position is that the death penalty is no longer a deterrent to violent crime.

“I do not believe that argument today can be successfully made, nor do I believe that there’s any chance in the future the facts that I’ve cited to support that belief will change,” he said. “Therefore, I believe Ohio should abolish the death penalty.”

DeWine’s position is no surprise. He has repeatedly delayed scheduled executions during his time as governor. Add to that discussions about the means by which the death penalty is carried out — what is humane and effective? — and it seems as though lawmakers might have enough information to start considering the change.

“In a state and country in which alternatives to execution exist, we should support punishments that are in greater conformity with the dignity of the human person, made in the image and likeness of God,” Catholic Conference of Ohio Executive Director Brian Hickey said.

But some lawmakers remain stubborn. It’s been almost eight years since the last execution in Ohio. Neighboring West Virginia abolished the death penalty way back in 1965.

It is time for lawmakers to do more than scoff.