Senate kills bill to limit new rules on agriculture

ARIZONA - A bill that would have restricted new regulation of the state's agriculture industry died after a preliminary vote Tuesday in the Senate.

The measure, which would have amended the state Constitution if approved by voters, was originally aimed at pre-empting a possible citizens initiative to ban some industrial farming practices. Although amended on the floor after public outcry, the bill still failed, 15-12.

Several senators questioned the intent and the impact of the measure, which was introduced by Sen. Jake Flake at the behest of industry lobbyists. As originally written, the measure would have given the agricultural industry an unheard-of constitutional exemption from new regulation.

State lawmakers and voters would have had to amend the Constitution to pass new laws except in certain circumstances, like to protect public health and safety.

Source: The Arizona Republic

15 March 2006