Oregon’s IP28 completes signature-gathering
On July 2, 142,784 signatures were submitted to the Oregon Secretary of State in support of the highly controversial ballot initiative, IP 28. Also known as the People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions Act (PEACE), IP 28 would effectively criminalize hunting, fishing and ranching. The proponents of this initiative, a Portland-based vegan cohort, hope to transition Oregonians to a plant-based lifestyle by outlawing the “abuse” and “sexual assault" of animals. This alarming terminology is misleading if you haven’t been following the issue closely. According to the IP 28 website they define these terms in the following manner,
“Animals on farms, research labs, exhibitions, and in the wild, would no longer be allowed to be intentionally injured or killed (abused), nor would they be allowed to be forcibly impregnated (sexually assaulted).”
The initiative blatantly disregards the agricultural sector and would devastate ranches across the state. It’s clear that the proponents recognize this as evidenced by the FAQ you see on their website:
“Could a rancher still raise cattle?
Since IP28 would prohibit killing animals,including bovines, a rancher would likely no longer have a reason to raise cattle. That said, IP28 does not prohibit a rancher from strictly raising and caring for bovines or any other animal. It would, however, require that the rancher does not abuse, neglect, or sexually assault the animals under their care, meaning that the animals could not be killed or forcibly impregnated. We would encourage ranchers to transition to an alternative agriculture practice, which could be supported by the Humane Transition Fund that IP28 establishes. If a rancher would prefer to continue caring for animals, there is also the possibility that they could help operate an animal sanctuary. At a sanctuary, they could still care for animals, while also letting the animals live out their natural lives.”
Many consumers already feel the increased prices of food at the grocery store. If IP28 were to qualify for the November ballot and pass, not only would Oregon’s agricultural sector collapse, but Oregon retailers would be required to import beef, poultry, seafood, etc. into their stores. At a time where buying local is a source of pride and a demonstration of support, Oregonians would be stripped of this choice. Some legislators, Democrat and Republican alike, are taking note.
“Hunting and fishing for food is a part of Oregon’s heritage and for many of us, part of who we are. Buying locally-raised foods at the local farmers market would be outlawed while restaurant and grocery prices would increase substantially,” explained Oregon Sportsmen’s Legislative Caucus Co-chair Sen. Anthony Broadman (D-Bend).
IP28 proponents need 117,000 signatures to qualify for the November ballot. Traditionally, reaching 140,000 signatures will qualify a measure, accounting for duplicate and illegible signatures. By the end of July, it’s likely Oregon’s Secretary of State will have reached a decision on its qualification. If you’re interested in receiving updates on this issue or advice on how to take action, please join our email list. There is no place for our industry on the sidelines, inaction will cost us all.