Post by jenm on Mar 12, 2009 23:27:21 GMT -5
THIS IS BAD, VERY BAD:
Updated: March 12, 2009 06:20 PM
"Horse slaughter" bill passed by MT House
A bill to authorize investor-owned livestock slaughter and processing plants in the state has passed through the Montana House of Representatives.
What's become known as the "Horse Slaughter bill" was heard in front of the Senate Agriculture, Livestock, and Irrigation committee.
Bill sponsor Ed Butcher (R-Winifred) says House Bill 418 relates to livestock, not pets, and is a "safe business environment" bill that could bring millions of dollars in revenue to the Montana.
Butcher estimates there are 150,000 excess horses in the country per year and this would provide a humane means of disposal.
Butcher explained, "This is probably one of the most important bills, not only for the state of Montana but also for the nation, that is going to come before the body this year. I think it's very timely, those of us that receive the phone calls and e-mails and whatever recognize that this is a serious problem in horse country."
Opponents at today's hearing argue that slaughter houses create environmental problems, and the stigma that they bring can hinder business development by repelling investors.
Updated: March 12, 2009 06:20 PM
"Horse slaughter" bill passed by MT House
A bill to authorize investor-owned livestock slaughter and processing plants in the state has passed through the Montana House of Representatives.
What's become known as the "Horse Slaughter bill" was heard in front of the Senate Agriculture, Livestock, and Irrigation committee.
Bill sponsor Ed Butcher (R-Winifred) says House Bill 418 relates to livestock, not pets, and is a "safe business environment" bill that could bring millions of dollars in revenue to the Montana.
Butcher estimates there are 150,000 excess horses in the country per year and this would provide a humane means of disposal.
Butcher explained, "This is probably one of the most important bills, not only for the state of Montana but also for the nation, that is going to come before the body this year. I think it's very timely, those of us that receive the phone calls and e-mails and whatever recognize that this is a serious problem in horse country."
Opponents at today's hearing argue that slaughter houses create environmental problems, and the stigma that they bring can hinder business development by repelling investors.
