Ag-Gag’ Law Argued Unconstitutional

Jul 24, 2013

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.

Video: Planting Corn with Classic Allis-Chalmers Tractors | Full Field Action

Step into the field for a full day of spring fieldwork as this farm plants corn using classic Allis-Chalmers power near Arcanum, Ohio. In this video, the farm is working ground with an Allis-Chalmers 8050 pulling a Salford field cultivator and Brillion Culti-Packer to prepare the seedbed. Right behind, an Allis-Chalmers 7020 handles planting duties with a 12-row White planter, putting this year’s corn crop in the ground. You’ll see a mix of aerial drone footage and ground-level views capturing all the action, along with a voiceover that dives into the history and legacy of these two Allis-Chalmers tractors. It’s a great look at how reliable, older equipment is still getting the job done during spring planting season. If you enjoy classic farm equipment, corn planting, and real-world field action, this one is for you.