Ohio legislators consider ballot initiative on livestock care standards

Read updated story: Ohio studies livestock care ballot initiative

SALEM, Ohio — An amendment to Ohio’s constitution will be proposed this week in the Senate that will create and enforce guidelines for proper care of livestock and poultry.

The legislation would authorize a ballot initiative and language this November , which, if passed, would create the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board, a 13-member board responsible for implementing proper guidelines.

Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland has announced his support of the amendment.

“This effort will help further the mission of Ohio farmers to provide high-quality, locally grown food,” Strickland said.

“The board will ensure that Ohioans continue to have access to a safe and affordable local food supply and will make our state a national leader in the level of animal care and responsibility.”

More details and the opinions of other organizations involved with the legislation will follow later today.