Could ballot language mislead voters?

On November 2, Missouri voters will have a simple choice-yes or no on Proposition "B". However, the passage of Proposition B could have long term implications for everyone from pet owners to livestock farmers. Known at the Missouri Dog Breeding Regulation Initiative a/k/a the "Puppy Mill Initiative" has caused quite a stir. Here is the ballot language as it stands:


Shall Missouri law be amended to:
•require large-scale dog breeding operations to provide each dog under their care with sufficient food, clean water, housing and space; necessary veterinary care; regular exercise and adequate rest between breeding cycles;
•prohibit any breeder from having more than 50 breeding dogs for the purpose of selling their puppies as pets; and
•create a misdemeanor crime of “puppy mill cruelty” for any violations?

It is estimated state governmental entities will incur costs of $654,768 (on-going costs of $521,356 and one-time costs of $133,412). Some local governmental entities may experience costs related to enforcement activities and savings related to reduced animal care activities.

Fair Ballot Language:

A “yes” vote will amend Missouri law to require large-scale dog breeding operations to provide each dog under their care with sufficient food, clean water, housing and space; necessary veterinary care; regular exercise and adequate rest between breeding cycles.  The amendment further prohibits any breeder from having more than 50 breeding dogs for the purpose of selling their puppies as pets.  The amendment also creates a misdemeanor crime of “puppy mill cruelty” for any violations.
A “no” vote will not change the current Missouri law regarding dog breeders.
If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.

That ballot language has already kindled a lawsuit- Karen Strange of the Missouri Federation of Animal Owners filed a lawsuit against Secretary of State Robin Carnahan that challenges the approved ballot language. The term "puppy mills" is at the center of the challenge. "The Humane Society intentionally uses the term 'puppy mill' because they know it infuriates people," she said. However, Strange also questions whether the language details the actual legislation being proposed. Chuck Hatfield, who represents Strange, argues that the language does not explain what the initiative might do to legitimate dog breeding facilities, for example.

In opposition, Barbara Schmitz, campaign manager of Missourians for the Protection of Dogs, said, "I think the average person understands what a puppy mill is. What we're trying to do is reduce the suffering. What we're trying to do is address the basic, humane care for these dogs."

In early May, Schmitz said the lawsuit was "frivolous" and "an attempt to keep voters of Missouri from being able to speak to this issue." However, breeder Jenny Thrasher said the lawsuit is not frivolous and added "This measure violates the constitution of the State of Missouri. It restricts the right to free enterprise."

The case was heard August 9 by Cole County Circuit Judge Jon Beetem.

On August 13, the judge ruled to uphold the ballot language for Proposition B. Specifically, the judge ruled that the ballot summary drafted by Secretary Carnahan was "neither insufficient nor unfair." So there you have it.

Or so it seems. Barb York of El Dorado Springs is gearing up for a fight since the judge's decision to uphold the language, which she fears will mislead voters.

“I’m a Missouri girl,” says the El Dorado Spings dog breeder and cattle rancher. “I am stubborn. I am not going out without a fight.” York will now turn to fighting the ballot initiative with Strange and many others.

SO why is Strange, Thrasher, York and many others so dead set against something that is supposed to protect innocent animals? After all, if you vote yes, you are hoping to stop puppy mills in Missouri...

York is concerned that if an outside organization can tell her how to raise small puppies, that telling her how to raise cattle is next. “I fear this is the first step in getting to animal agriculture,” she says. “I really do. That is their main objective. To take agriculture apart one segment at a time.”

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Proposition B has been the focal point of many discussions around Bates County. Voters are urged to study it and fully understand the outcome of their vote either way. More ballot information is available on Secretary of State Robin Carnahan's official web site.