By Blake Jackson
Kentucky has recently enacted legislation that significantly restricts the ability of activists, journalists, and concerned citizens to document conditions within factory farms and food processing plants. This so-called "ag-gag" law prohibits unauthorized filming, photography, or audio recording of these facilities, including the use of drones.
The bill was championed by the meat industry.
While proponents argue that the law is necessary to protect agricultural operations from biosecurity threats and trespassing, critics contend that it is primarily designed to conceal animal cruelty, environmental abuses, and worker exploitation.
Kentucky’s ag-gag law is likely to face legal challenges. Several states have enacted similar legislation in recent years, only to have those laws struck down by courts as unconstitutional violations of the First Amendment.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sstajic
Categories: Kentucky, General