Factory farming is an aberration and cannot survive the light of day. It depends on secrecy to survive and unwitting consumers to subsidize its abuses.
In recent years, animal advocates have successfully put farm animal welfare before voters, and as a result, some of agribusiness’ cruelest systems such as veal crates, gestation crates and battery cages have been outlawed. Last November, Californians voted by a two to one margin to ban these inhumane confinement methods where animals are packed so tightly that they cannot even turn around or stretch their limbs.
In the wake of California's vote, legislators in Michigan negotiated a compromise with humane advocates and agribusiness officials. All parties agreed to give animals more room and to phase out veal crates, gestation crates and battery cages in Michigan. But in Ohio, agribusiness refused to come to the table. Instead, it rushed forward drastic legislation seeking to maintain the cruel status quo. They've placed Issue 2 on the upcoming ballot, which will create an industry dominated Livestock Care Standards Board to define what is appropriate.
Issue 2 represents an undemocratic agribusiness power grab, and it should be rejected. If you live in Ohio, please vote NO on Issue 2 on November 3, and tell everyone you know in Ohio to do the same.
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