The debate over a controversial agricultural ballot measure in Oklahoma is growing more heated, reports The Oklahoman.
SQ 777 is a constitutional amendment that would prevent Oklahoma lawmakers from passing legislation to regulate agriculture unless it has a “compelling state interest.” Rep. Scott Biggs said he authored the measure to limit the power of groups like the Humane Society.
One local food store in Oklahoma City's Farmers Market District posted anti-777 campaign signs prominently around the shop. The store’s owner, Matthew Burch, said, “We’ve had people come in and [say] ‘you're part of the problem in this country.’” Burch said he opposes the bill because tying the Legislature’s hands doesn't make sense to him. Former Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson agrees, saying, “This is a solution in search of a problem—there is nobody attacking agriculture in Oklahoma.”