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Analysis of SQ 777 – Oklahoma's "Right to Farm" By Amanda Rosholt Director of Fundraising and Public Relations for the Oklahoma Farming and Ranching Foundation What is "Right to Farm," State Question 777?
What does the amendment say?
State Question 777 is a proposed amendment to the Oklahoma Constitution that will protect farming and ranching practices for farmers large and small across our state, giving consumers more choices and more affordable food options. Any related laws, statutes and ordinances enacted prior to Dec. 31, 2014, are upheld. Oklahomans will have an opportunity to vote on the amendment at the general election on Nov. 8, 2016.
The full text states: "To protect agriculture as a vital sector of Oklahoma’s economy, which provides food, energy, health benefits, and security and is the foundation and stabilizing force of Oklahoma’s economy, the rights of citizens and lawful residents of Oklahoma to engage in farming and ranching practices shall be forever guaranteed in this state. The Legislature shall pass no law which abridges the right of citizens and lawful residents of Oklahoma to employ agricultural technology and livestock production and ranching practices without a compelling state interest. "Nothing in this section shall be construed to modify any provision of common law or statutes relating to trespass, eminent domain, dominance of mineral interests, easements, rights of way or any other property rights. Nothing in this section shall be construed to modify or affect any statute or ordinance enacted by the Legislature or any political subdivision prior to December 31, 2014."
Who supports SQ 777? Oklahomans across our state in rural and urban areas support SQ 777, including Oklahoma family farmers and ranchers, who make up 98 percent of Oklahoma’s farms, as well as numerous agricultural groups, including Oklahoma Farm Bureau, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, Oklahoma Pork Council, Oklahoma Agricultural Cooperative Council, The Poultry Federation, American Farmers and Ranchers, Oklahoma Wheat Growers Association, Oklahoma Grain and Feed Association, Oklahoma Agribusiness Retailers Association, Oklahoma Cotton Council and the Oklahoma Sorghum Association.
Where else has Right to Farm been passed? What was the effect? Right to Farm has been passed in Missouri and North Dakota. In each of these states, the amendment has provided extra protection for the rights of farmers and ranchers. These farmers and ranchers continue to use responsible farming and ranching practices and remain dedicated to the welfare of their animals and the environment.
What is "compelling state interest?" Why is that language included? The Right to Farm amendment will protect agriculture, but not to the detriment of Oklahoma’s water quality, animal welfare or public safety. The “compelling state interest” language is a safeguard to protect the health, safety and welfare of Oklahoma citizens. Laws and regulations that are necessary and are already in place to protect the health, safety and welfare of Oklahoma citizens, animal welfare, water quality, etc., will not be affected by SQ 777.
For the full text of the analysis, visit the Oklahoma Farming and Ranching Foundation's website at okfarmingandranchingfoundation.org. 20 — Oklahoma Country