Overtime
The decision by the Michigan livestock industry to compromise on animal welfare legislation with HSUS sends a disturbing signal. Hopefully Ohio voters will send a more positive one next month.
Fearful of losing a threatened HSUS led ballot initiative, the Michigan livestock industry pushed for a substitute bill rather than legislation that had been crafted during the year in the Ag Committee. If passed, poultry and pork producers would have ten years to make required changes in production practices but veal producers would be given only one year. Time will tell if this was a wise move but it seems to me the livestock industry was a bit quick to compromise. I understand the challenges of educating voters about agriculture issues and certainly the passage of Proposition 2 in California is a reminder of what can happen if you lose. However to give in without even trying to tell your side of the story to voters is hard to accept. Negotiating with a group that wants to ultimately put you out of business seems like a questionable strategy. Time will tell if that was a good decision.
Meanwhile in Ohio a different and I think preferable approach is being taken. Ohio agriculture is conducting their own ballot initiative seeking voter approval of an Animal Care Standards Board to oversee livestock production practices in the state. In other words, let the experts make the decisions rather than some outside group calling the shots. Early voting on Issue 2 is already underway and a number of educational events are taking place. The outcome of that vote will be watched closely around the country and will send a loud signal to other states. I realize each state is different but if Issue 2 passes in Ohio it shows other states they don’t have to automatically give in to HSUS. On the other hand, if Issue 2 fails it will be seen as another victory for HSUS and make it harder for other states to stand up to them. I hope Ohio voters will show strong support for their livestock industry!