Say no to farm bill

There is a growing concern in Massachusetts (and across the country) about the cruelty inflicted on animals used for food. Right now, millions of chickens, pigs and cows in factory farms are locked in cages so small they can barely move. Voters and charities across our state are mobilizing in support of the ballot measure known as the Act to Prevent Cruelty to Farm Animals, which would require farm animals be given at least enough space to stand up, turn around and extend their limbs.

Meanwhile, lobbyists with ties to factory farms in other states are pushing lawmakers to pass a deceitful bill, H. 713, designed to undercut support for the ballot measure. This bill would create a board to approve rules on farm animal care, giving the public a false sense that the issue is being addressed, but the board would be loaded with officials tied to agribusiness, ensuring no policies to lessen animal suffering are passed. I hope our state representatives and senators see through this fraudulent effort and instead endorse the ballot measure.

Karla Starkenberg

Lynn