October 3, 2018 - As the November election nears, California Farm Bureau Federation directors encourage voters to approve a water bond measure but to reject an initiative that would impose new restrictions on how farm animals are raised. CFBF directors considered statewide ballot measures during a meeting in Sacramento.
The CFBF board endorsed passage of Proposition 3, an $8.9 billion measure to invest in water-system enhancements including groundwater supply, water recycling, efficiency improvements, safe drinking water and repairs to critical water projects.
“One of California’s top priorities must be to enhance our water system,” CFBF President Jamie Johansson said. “Proposition 3 builds on earlier investments. It represents the latest contribution to what must be an ongoing commitment to assure California’s water system can meet its future needs.”
The ballot initiative Proposition 12 would dictate specific requirements for housing egg-laying hens, veal calves and hogs. Johansson called the measure unnecessary.
“Everyone agrees farm animals should be treated with care,” he said, “and California voters passed Proposition 2 on animal housing 10 years ago. California egg farmers who have managed to stay in business comply with those rules. All Proposition 12 does is allow trial lawyers to file predatory lawsuits against egg farmers, who provide some of the healthiest food on the planet. Proposition 12 would push egg prices higher in the state that already suffers from the nation’s highest poverty rate.”
Here is the full list of CFBF ballot recommendations: | |
---|---|
Proposition 1—Veterans Housing Bonds | No position |
Proposition 2—Shift in Tax Revenue | NO |
Proposition 3—Water System Enhancements | YES |
Proposition 4—Children’s Hospital Bonds | No position |
Proposition 5—Property Tax Assessment Transfer | YES |
Proposition 6—Fuel Tax Repeal | YES |
Proposition 7—Daylight Saving Time | No position |
Proposition 8—Kidney Dialysis Price Setting | NO |
Proposition 9 was removed from the ballot | |
Proposition 10—Rent Control | NO |
Proposition 11—Ambulance Employees | No position |
Proposition 12—Farm Animal Housing | NO |