Ohio vote

Here are the results of the vote in Ohio on the Livestock Care Commission…..It was a success for the Ohio FB and other Ag groups and supporters that worked to get this initiative on the ballot and passed….

The vote was 63.66% Yes and 36.34% No…..


Below is a statement from the Ohio group that helped organize the campaign to support the ballot initiative.


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 3, 2009

COLUMBUS – The Ohioans for Livestock Care Political Action Committee (PAC)
today released the following statement in response to the passage of State
Issue 2. The statement can be attributed in part or in its entirety to
John Lumpe, president, Ohioans for Livestock Care PAC.

“Ohioans have spoken and clearly understand that a board of experts
is the appropriate entity to make decisions on behalf of animal
agriculture and food production in our state. Passage of Issue 2 is
a win for everyone who acknowledges the essential relationship
between excellent farm animal care and a safe, affordable, locally
grown food supply. Voters agree with Ohio’s farm community and our
diverse base of supporters - decisions about food and farming should
be made in Ohio, by Ohioans.

“We would like to thank Governor Strickland and our legislative
leaders for their support in getting this resolution on the ballot,
our collective farm community for their continued commitment to
responsible farm management and animal care, the more than 500 state
organizations and individual endorsers, and Ohio voters for
recognizing the need for such a board in our state. It is clear that
all Ohioans – rural and suburban, Republican and Democrat – have come
together and recognize just how important agriculture is to the
state.

“The Livestock Care Standards Board created through passage of Issue
2 will provide an effective mechanism for determining and enforcing
guidelines for the care and well-being of livestock and poultry, and
for ensuring the quality, safety and availability of locally produced
food in Ohio.

“We look forward to working with the Ohio General Assembly on the
implementing legislation.”