Farms.com Home   Ag Industry News

Ag-Gag’ Law Argued Unconstitutional

Lawsuit Challenges Utah’s Year-Old Agricultural Operation Interference Law

By Amanda Brodhagen, Farms.com

Utah is shaping up to be a battle ground between animal activist groups and agriculture advocates. A lawsuit filed Monday will be the first significant legal challenge to an ‘ag-gag’ law.

The term ‘ag-gag’ coined by animal activist groups refer to state laws which put restrictions on recording undercover videos on farms. These laws vary from state to state - Utah’s legislation is called Agricultural Operation Interference law.

Several animal activist groups, journalist and a woman who were charged under the year-old law are suing the state, alleging the law is unconstitutional. In the 41-filing the case is made that the law criminalises undercover investigations, hindering free speech. Advocates of the legislation say the law is intended to protect private property rights.

This landmark lawsuit is will be closely watched by activist groups and the agriculture industry. Depending on the outcome, it may impact similar protection laws in other U.S. states.
 


Trending Video

Early Fall Colors | Scenic Ontario Road Trip!

Video: Early Fall Colors | Scenic Ontario Road Trip!

All adventures must come to an end, but not without one more journey! Join The Wandering Shepherds as we say farewell to our cozy Calabogie cottage and take the scenic road trip home to Ewetopia Farms. Our first stop was a breathtaking hydroelectric generating station, framed by cliffs, rushing water, and brilliant fall leaves that seemed to have changed overnight. From there, we meandered along winding backroads through lakes and hills, soaking in the spectacular autumn scenery. This year, the colors seemed to arrive earlier than usual—perhaps due to the summer’s drought? Whatever the reason, it was an unforgettable display of Ontario’s fall beauty. Finally, our holiday drew to a close as we pulled back into Ewetopia Farms, ready to return to the sheep and our daily vlogs. But this trip reminded us how important it is to pause, explore, and appreciate the simple beauty around us.