Filming on farms, ranches and dairies could be prohibited in Utah despite concerns that animal abuse will go unreported. Republican Sen. Dave Hinkins of Orangeville says the purpose of House Bill 187 is to prevent animal-rights activists from taking pictures or video to use as propaganda.
The bill is returning to the House after passing the Senate 24-5.
Hinkins says amendments made in the Senate protect legitimate employees who film safety violations. The bill only applies to somebody who gets hired at an agricultural operation under false pretenses.
Amanda Hitt with the Government Accountability Project says the bill will still have a chilling effect on whistleblowers because of the threat of criminal prosecution.
Hitt says the primary goal is to prevent any pictures of agricultural operations. PD
—AP newswire report
