Ag-Gag Bill Vetoed

May 13, 2013 at 11:28 am by bryan


Governor Bill Haslam has vetoed the so-called "Ag Gag" bill. He says he's spent a great deal of time considering the legislation and getting input from both sides. But after consideration, the governor says he's vetoing the legislation.

The proposed law would have required anyone who takes pictures or video of animal abuse to turn it in to law enforcement within 48 hours or face a fine of up to $500. Governor Haslam says some of his concerns deal with the constitutionality of the legislation and the fact it appears to repeal parts of Tennessee’s Shield Law without saying so. The governor adds some district attorneys has stated the act could actually make it more difficult to prosecute animal cruelty cases. He's encouraging the General Assembly to reconsider the issue during their next session.

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