Farmers Push for Bill to Protect Farms and Equipment
A farm lobbyist, Scott Williams, representing the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation, is advocating for a bill aimed at safeguarding farms and farm equipment from vandalism. Williams strongly supports the bill, which is sponsored by Senator Larry Mumper, a Marion Republican. The proposed legislation would not only prohibit the destruction of crops, timber, livestock, or farm equipment but would also emphasize that offenders must pay double the damages to the victims.
Lobbying for Protection
Williams is urging Ohio lawmakers to enact this bill to offer a much-needed shield to farmers who are vulnerable to acts of vandalism. The Ohio Farm Bureau Federation believes that this legislation is critical for safeguarding the state's agricultural sector.
Unanimous Senate Approval
The Ohio state Senate has provided unanimous approval for the bill, recognizing the importance of protecting the farming community. With this endorsement, the bill has progressed and is now under consideration by the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, where its potential impacts will be thoroughly evaluated.
Preventing Crimes Before They Happen
The bill's sponsor, Senator Larry Mumper, has cited reports of farm raids in other states by animal rights groups and other potential threats to justify the necessity of this legislation. Mumper has highlighted that other targets could include biotechnology and animal research centers. While no such crimes have been reported in Ohio, Mumper and Williams believe that taking preventive measures early on is crucial to avoid any potential damage to the state's agricultural assets.
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