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The ballot measure would redefine the legal status of animals, directly harm farmers, ranchers, anglers, and hunters, and result in significant job losses.
If Initiative Petition 28 qualifies for the ballot and is approved by voters, fishing, slaughtering livestock, conducting animal research, and even pest control would be effectively banned and treated as criminal activities. While exemptions would remain for self‑defense and veterinary care, most protections currently in place for dogs and cats would be extended to salmon, deer, and cattle.
While responsible treatment of animals is a shared value, this measure goes far beyond preventing cruelty. It threatens the livelihoods of tens of thousands of Oregonians, the stability of our $5 billion agricultural sector, and the state’s long‑term food security.
We agree with Governor Kotek.
Last month, we passed a resolution condemning the bill, which will appear on the November ballot, and sent a press release to local media outlets to help spread the word.