Issue 2 protects Ohio farmers from outside activists

Issue 2 protects Ohio farmers from outside activists

EDITOR:

Like thousands of other American farmers, I take great pride in being a part of a family operated farm and that is why I strongly support the passage of Issue 2.

Our nation has never had a food shortage and for that, we can thank the American farmer who produces a quality, affordable and nutritious food supply to consumers. Agriculture is the number one industry in the State of Ohio and helps maintain a viable economy by creating jobs, supporting local business and contributing to the tax base.

An out-of-state activist group has indicated they would like to bring an initiative to Ohio that would set strict, rigid and impractical rules for how livestock and poultry are housed. This would lead to higher costs for consumers, put food safety at risk, increase the amount of food imported to Ohio and cause thousands of farmers to go out of business.

Farmers must own the animal care issue and Ohio farms are not the place for out-of-state activists. Decisions about animal care should be made by Ohioans for Ohioans and in the best interest of the consumers, animals and farmers.

Issue 2 was created by a joint resolution in the Ohio House and Ohio Senate with a majority of bipartisan support and is endorsed by more than 500 state, local and community leaders. The passage of Issue 2 would create the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board which will assure Ohio families have a safe, reasonably priced and locally grown food supply.

A yes vote for Issue 2 on Election Day, November 3, 2009, will bring together Ohio’s animal care experts to ensure excellent care of the state’s flocks and herds; maintain the viability of Ohio agriculture — the state’s number one economic contributor and most importantly assure the continuation of Ohio families having the superior food supply that they are accustomed to.

DIANA MARCHESE

Trumbull County Recorder

Farmdale