On May 15, 1999 the Berkeley County Humane Society awarded Delegate John Overington a Certificate of Appreciation for his efforts in introducing and getting legislation passed to assist with the humane euthanasia of animals. The legislation Overington worked on, H.B. 2656, creates a euthanasia technician that will allow humane societies and animal control agencies to store and use sodium pentobarbital. Overington also worked with the Drug Enforcement Agency, the State Board of Veterinary Medicine and the pharmacy board to arrive at language all would find acceptable.

The BCHS Appreciation Banquet was held at the Berkeley Co. Youth Fairgrounds near Martinsburg. The award was presented by BCHS President Rod Llewellyn. Delegate Overington also got legislation passed several years earlier that increased the penalty for animal cruelty. In accepting the award Del. Overington said he enjoyed working with the Humane Societies across the state to assist cats and dogs, especially since cats and dogs do not talk back and with wagging tails are just glad to see you when you get home.