Recovered from the Wayback Machine.
Tomorrow is going to be a nasty day, weather wise and in the state legislature.
Two bills are doing to be discussed in public meetings: hJR 3 and HB 100.
HJR 3 wants to put a bill on the ballot to vote on a Constitutional amendment to ensure that no other citizen initiative that’s related to animal breeding be allowed in the future.
HB 100 adds a new statue that reads:
262.005. 1. Agriculture which provides food, energy, and security is the foundation and stabilizing force of Missouri’s economy. To protect this vital sector of Missouri’s economy, it shall be the right of citizens to raise livestock in a humane manner without the state imposing an undue economic burden on livestock owners.
2. As used in this section, the following terms shall mean:
(1) “Generally accepted scientific principles”, agricultural standards and practices established by the University of Missouri, and the most current industry standards and practices;
(2) “Humane manner”, care of livestock regarding the livestock’s health and environment in compliance with generally accepted scientific principles;
(3) “Undue economic burden”, expenses incurred resulting from changes in agricultural practices deemed legal under current state or local laws or ordinances.
Actually, agriculture is Missouri’s 4th largest industry, not it’s primary industry.
What’s disingenuous about this bill is that a newly enacted law, such as Proposition B’s Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act, could be discarded because enforcement of the law could be considered an “undue economic burden” on the dog breeders. Point of fact, it could be used to undermine any reform or regulation of the agricultural industry in this state.
No other type of business is offered this form of legislative sanctuary.
Between these and all the bills to overturn Proposition B, little is getting done in this legislative session. It’s as if the cities and towns that primarily foot the bill for this state, don’t even exist. It is the tyranny of the many by the few.