Yet another ag-gag bill pops up at the Statehouse

The industrial animal ag industry is now on their fourth attempt at passing an ag-gag bill in Iowa. These laws continue to be rejected because they are unconstitutional. Why is the industry trying to pass another one? It might be related to the fact that Iowa Select Farms used a horrible process to kill pigs they couldn't send to slaughter during the COVID crisis. They lied to the public when they said that ventilation shutdown was humane. A brave whistleblower and videos exposed the truth. When industry practices and problems are exposed, instead of making changes, they introduce bills to prevent exposure.

We already have trespassing laws. It appears that with HF 775, the industry wants to make the penalties so severe, that no one would dare reveal the things that happen behind their closed doors. If this law passes, you could become a felon for taking a photo.

The public has an interest in the welfare of the animals and in the safety of our food. If the industry is proud of what they are doing, why are they trying to avoid transparency? Please contact your legislators and ask them to oppose this bill.

Lynn Gallagher

Solon