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"Right to Farm" Question Stirs Debate in Oklahoma

Steve Sisney
/
The Oklahoman

There’s a debate raging in Oklahoma ag circles about something known simply as “Question 777,”reports NewsOK.com. State Question 777 is a constitutional amendment that would prevent Oklahoma lawmakers from regulating agriculture in many cases. Legislators would only be able to act if the Oklahoma had a “compelling state interest” to change the laws. Voters will go to the polls in November to decide this “right to farm” question.

Opponents say the amendment is a giveaway to ag corporations. They’re concerned the measure could prevent protection of state water from pollutants like animal waste and fertilizer. Meanwhile, the measure has the support of the Oklahoma Farm Bureau, as well as the Oklahoma Cattlemen's Association and Oklahoma Pork Council among others.

Similar laws have been approved by voters in North Dakota and Missouri.