Prop B Debate - Utterly Disgraceful

A battle has been ensuing in Missouri over the controversial Prop B – aka Puppy Mill Law.  There is a lot of broohaha about monitoring agriculture.  If you read the proposition, no where does it state anything other than the ethical treatment of DOGS.  Read the full proposition at:

http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/2010petitions/2010-085.asp

The purpose of this Act is to prohibit the cruel and inhumane treatment of dogs in puppy mills

Prop B is requesting the following:

1. This section shall be known and may be cited as the ”Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act.”

2. The purpose of this Act is to prohibit the cruel and inhumane treatment of dogs in puppy mills by requiring large-scale dog breeding operations to provide each dog under their care with basic food and water, adequate shelter from the elements, necessary veterinary care, adequate space to turn around and stretch his or her limbs, and regular exercise.

3. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person having custody or ownership of more than ten female covered dogs for the purpose of breeding those animals and selling any offspring for use as a pet shall provide each covered dog:

(1) Sufficient food and clean water;

(2) Necessary veterinary care;

(3) Sufficient housing, including protection from the elements;

(4) Sufficient space to turn and stretch freely, lie down, and fully extend his or her limbs;

(5) Regular exercise; and

(6) Adequate rest between breeding cycles.

4. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person may have custody of more than fifty covered dogs for the purpose of breeding those animals and selling any offspring for use as a pet

Now, all this seems very reasonable, common sense and right.  Yet there are those spreading ridiculous claims that this attacks agriculture.  To those who state that please reread the proposition.  It specifically states “DOGS” and “PUPPY MILLS”.

Stop being alarmists.  It's really unbecoming.

A prime example of those opposing what the voters approved is a Rep. Jason Smith.  His mother owns a puppy mill, cited numerous times.

http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/govt-and-politics/political-fix/article_ef57fb04-4069-11e0-8250-00127992bc8b.html

Upstanding?  No.  Credible?  No.  The voters voted.  Do your job. 

http://www.fox2now.com/ktvi-fox-files-prop-b-foe-may-have-conflict-of-interest-20110222,0,756471.story

Ironically, I came home to a message on my answering machine.  From some witch talking about Prop B and agriculture.  I deleted it.  I should have saved it and called them back...