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 Jun. 2, 2026 Feedstuffs magazine reports: A proposed ballot initiative in Oregon could have far-reaching consequences for animal agriculture and animal-related activities in the state if it is placed on the ballot for a vote in November. Initiative petition (IP) 28, the People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions (PEACE) Act, proposes to amend Oregon's animal cruelty laws to remove certain exemptions related to animal abuse, animal neglect and animal sexual assault, thereby expanding the range of activities carrying criminal penalties. For example, IP 28 seeks to remove the exemption for "good animal husbandry" practices, including livestock dehorning, tail docking and castration or neutering. In addition, the measure would redefine criminal sexual assault of an animal in such a way that "livestock producers who rely on artificial insemination and other reproductive management practices" could face criminal prosecution unless those practices are done by a veterinarian, the National Agricultural Law Center (NALC) said. The Oregon Cattlemen's Association warns that the initiative "is eager to end animal production in Oregon as we know it" by banning activities in the state such as animal harvesting and processing, artificial insemination, pest control and animal leashes or restraints. The Oregon Farm Bureau (OFB) adds that IP 28 will "dramatically redefine animal abuse in state law by making the killing or injury of animals illegal. While the language may sound straightforward, the implications are sweeping. IP 28 would fundamentally alter Oregon's animal abuse statutes in a way that criminalizes longstanding, lawful and necessary activities across agriculture, natural resource management and daily life." OFB said if passed, the PEACE Act will "redefine 'sexual assault' to include routine breeding practices, potentially applying this classification to livestock, equine operations and even domestic pets. This would expose farmers, ranchers, veterinarians, breeders and animal owners to criminal liability for standard, humane practices that are essential to animal health, food production and genetic management. "The passage of IP 28 would effectively turn Oregon into a 'no kill or harm' sanctuary state, eliminating in-state meat, dairy and animal protein production," OFB added. To read the entire article click here. Tweet |
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