The Kansas House Ag Committee approved a resolution yesterday urging the U.S. Congress to avoid federal legislation that would interfere with a state’s ability to direct the transportation and processing of horses. KLA testified in favor of HCR 5004 during a hearing last week, suggesting the elimination of humane processing for unwanted horses creates the potential for long-term neglect and abandonment. Policy approved by KLA members during the annual convention opposes legislation or regulations that hinder the ethical and humane transportation, harvesting and processing of horses.
In addition to KLA, other proponents of the proposed legislation included Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Farmers Union, the Kansas Horse Council and the Kansas Quarter Horse Association. Two individual horse owners testified in opposition to the resolution. The Humane Society of the United States submitted written comments in opposition to HCR 5004. The resolution is expected to receive action this week by the full House.
The horse resolution and a number of other bills that would directly affect livestock producers will be discussed by members today during the KLA Legislative Meeting and Dinner in Topeka. KLA staff will lead a bill review session starting at 1:00 p.m. at Topeka's Capitol Plaza Hotel. Members will decide whether to take positions on proposed legislation under consideration at the state Capitol. This evening, KLA members will discuss the impact of various bills with their legislators during a social and dinner starting at 6:00. Members are encouraged to attend the bill review and evening activities. Registration is available at the door. For more information, call the KLA office at (785) 273-5115.