California Farmers Adapt to New Agriculture Laws with Minimal Impact on Sentiment

SACRAMENTO, California – As new laws and regulations take effect in 2024, the California agriculture industry is set to undergo changes. Senate Bill 389 grants the state authority to investigate the validity of water users’ rights and impose penalties for unauthorized diversions. Meanwhile, Assembly Bill 1016 will streamline the certification process for farmers who wish to utilize drones for pesticide spraying and beneficial biological treatments. Additionally, the Advanced Clean Fleets rule aims to gradually phase out most diesel trucks in California over the next twenty years. Despite these impending changes, farmer sentiment remained relatively unchanged … Read more

Federal Appeals Court Lifts Injunctions on Iowa’s Animal Welfare Laws, Granting Victory to Farmers

Des Moines, Iowa – In a recent decision, a federal appeals court lifted two injunctions that had prevented the enforcement of Iowa laws designed to prevent undercover filming of animal confinements. These laws criminalize gaining entry to agricultural production facilities through deception and recording with a camera while trespassing. The Eighth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that these laws do not violate the free speech rights of groups that challenged them. The laws have been a subject of contention between animal welfare organizations and agricultural production facilities. Those in favor of the laws argue … Read more

Minnesota Deer Farmers Challenge State Regulations in Lawsuit Over New Farm Moratorium

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota deer farmers have filed a lawsuit against the state over a moratorium on new deer farms. In the case of Minnesota Deer Farmers Association, Et Al. v. The State of Minnesota, Et Al., the plaintiffs are seeking relief from new regulations enforced by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Deer farmers breed deer for various purposes, such as selling venison, antlers, or even the deer themselves. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, there are currently 3,325 deer spread across 125 farms in the state. However, this number … Read more