The More You Know

Be careful out there!

Yes, there are confusing and competing initiatives being circulated in opposition to the Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act. Yes, and yet again, one is parked over at the AG’s Office in a pending space and being touted as the “Farm Animal Protection Act.”

Hmmm … both that initiative and the “Pet Animal Protection Act” have the same proponent listed and the same contact information. Whoa, those animal advocates are really stepping up the game a little. Maybe. Not so much.

The “Pet Animal Protection Act” has all sorts of meaningful and wonderful provisions, including protecting animals as a “legitimate and compelling public interest,” making publicly-funded, government-operated shelters “obligated to taxpayers and community members to spend tax monies on programs and services whose purpose is to save and enhance the lives of animals,” mandating that they be open seven days a week for adoptions, humane euthanasia, a prohibition on convenience euthanasia, and the provision that “killing of savable animals in city and county shelters is a needless tragedy that must be brought to an end.” All fine and admirable provisions. Perhaps you’d like to sign the “Pet Animal Protection Act” initiative after you’ve carefully read it. Fine by us, we’re not implying that your shouldn’t or suggesting that you don’t.

But over and above our standard, complimentary Don’t Drink the Kool-Aid warning, we’re strongly suggesting that if you’re asked at the same time, or by the same signature gatherer(s), to “Oh, by the way, would you like to help farm animals, just sign this one, too …” please look very carefully at the materials those gatherers have for their farm animal initiative, including signage or banners, FAQs or summary sheets of the initiative, and particularly the sponsoring organizations listed by name on those materials.

Meditate on this famous quote: “If we put our [initiatives] together, we can think better!” Here’s another one: “I see dumb people.” Make sure you ain’t one of ‘em, because we’re pretty damn sure you wouldn’t want anything to do with helping United Egg Producers Certified 67 sq. in. of battery-cage space become the lawful basis for confinement of CA egg-laying hens.

Bottom line: if you don’t see Californians for Humane Farms, The Humane Society of the United States, and/or Farm Sanctuary listed as sponsors of the ballot initiative you’re being asked to sign, don’t get it twisted and Do. Not. Sign.