By Julie Murphree, Arizona Farm Bureau: Arizona Farm Bureau is deeply disappointed that the Arizona Governor vetoed HB 2150, the Livestock, Poultry and Animal Cruelty Bill.

Said Arizona Farm Bureau President Kevin Rogers, a cotton, wheat and alfalfa farmer in Maricopa County, who also works with his children to raise livestock animals for 4-H and FFA, "We do not mistreat animals, and the Governor's veto insinuates this."

"I'm very disappointed the Governor disagreed with the legislature and Arizonans who make a living raising and caring for livestock," said Arizona Farm Bureau President Kevin Rogers. "This bill brings in the Arizona Department of Agriculture to advise on livestock issues where regular law enforcement do not always have the same background and training as officers from ADA. The penalties for abuse are clearly outlined in HB 2150. They are the same. It appears this administration failed to recognize this bill protected all animals and did not undercut protections for any animals. "

The Arizona Farm Bureau believes that all animals deserve proper care and treatment and supported HB 2150. This bill distinguished livestock from pets and provided statutory language for investigating animal care issues that involve livestock. In addition, it strengthens protections for pets and increases the penalties for repeat offenders.

“The Arizona livestock industry is made up of individuals who work to provide a safe, quality product to consumers through the proper care of their livestock,” said Ana Kennedy, Arizona Farm Bureau Government Relations Manager who also grew up on a livestock operation. “Animal care is their number one priority, and the industry spends hundreds of millions of dollars in studying and implementing animal care practices that consider the health, safety, and comfort of animals. Many segments of the livestock industry have adopted best management practices to ensure that employees and care takers are properly trained to attend to all animal needs. It is important that legislation as it relates to animals recognize the investment the animal industry has made and protect it from unintended consequences.”

Those in opposition contend that the Bill did not protect animals. Arizona Farm Bureau provided a point-by-point case in our 2150 Fact Chart. 

Arizona's farmers and ranchers are committed to the care of their livestock every day. "We provide quality, nutritious food for this country," added Farm Bureau President Rogers, a cotton, wheat and alfalfa farmer in Maricopa County, who also works with his children to raise livestock animals for 4-H and FFA. "We do not mistreat animals, and the Governor's veto insinuates this."

Join our Family!