COLUMBIA, MISSOURI (Feb. 12, 2021) – Priority legislation of the Missouri Cattlemen's Association (MCA) was passed through the Missouri House of Representatives on Thursday, February 11, 2021. HB 574 calls for the prohibition of the inspection and enforcement of other state laws on agricultural land in Missouri. Rep. Kent Haden (R-43) sponsored the legislation, which also clarifies which entities or agencies have legal authority to inspect a farming or ranching facility.
The Missouri House of Representatives passed the legislation with a bipartisan 109-43vote. MCA Executive Vice President Mike Deering said the legislation gives producers clarity on which entities are legally allowed to enter their property and conduct inspections.
“This is common sense legislation that gives farmers and ranchers clarity regarding inspection authority. Further, the legislation also provides clarity for state regulatory agencies who aren’t sure if they do or don’t have authority,” said Deering. “At the end of the day, this legislation ensures that inspections are conducted by experts.”
Deering said MCA is committed to taking proactive steps to protect producers' private property rights. As a result of today’s vote, the legislation will move to the senate. The senate version of the bill, SB 254, sponsored by Sen. Jeanie Riddle (R-49), was heard Monday, Feb. 8, 2021, and a vote is to follow.
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