SALEM Ore. (KPTV) – Animal rights advocates are trying to qualify a ballot measure in Oregon that would dramatically change how animals are treated under state law, including banning most hunting, fishing, livestock farming and animal research.
The proposed measure, Initiative Petition 28, would remove many long-standing exemptions in Oregon’s animal cruelty laws. Under the initiative, most activities that hurt or kill animals would become criminal offenses. Exemptions would remain for self-defense and veterinary care.
FILE – Grass-fed cattle at Kookoolan Farm in Yamhill, Ore., Thursday, April 23, 2015.(Don Ryan | AP)
If it makes it on the ballot and is approved by voters in November, the protections that currently apply to pets such as dogs and cats would extend to wild animals, livestock and animals used in research. Supporters call the proposal the PEACE Act, short for People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions. Supporters say the measure is intended to protect animals from abuse, neglect, and killing.
This March 10, 2006 file photo shows fishing boats docked in Newport, Ore. (JEFF BARNARD | ASSOCIATED PRESS)
Opponents, including the Oregon Hunters Association, say it would force Oregonians to a vegan diet or have their meat products shipped in from other states. They say it would destroy entire industries, including agriculture, fishing, hunting, scientific research, food production, pest control and restaurants.
The initiative has not yet qualified for the November ballot. Organizers must submit 117,173 valid signatures by July 2.
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