A proposed ballot initiative in Oregon seeks to ban hunting, fishing, and slaughtering livestock, sparking intense debate between animal rights activists and agricultural groups. Initiative 28, backed by the People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemptions Act (PEACE), aims to remove exemptions from the state's animal cruelty laws for a wide range of activities.
If passed, the measure would reclassify these practices as criminal offenses ranging from misdemeanor abuse to felony assault. The initiative also targets scientific research on animals, rodeos, commercial poultry operations, and livestock neutering or castration.
Signature Milestone and Prospects
Supporters submitted over 120,000 signatures, surpassing the 117,000 required by July 2 to qualify for the 2026 midterm ballot. However, historical rejection rates suggest some signatures may be invalid—since 2022, at least 15% of signatures from qualifying petitions were rejected due to issues like non-registered voters.
David Michelson, PEACE's chief petitioner, acknowledged the challenge: "It is definitely possible that we could qualify... but we will be using every day before the deadline to collect signatures." He noted the campaign gained momentum in recent months.
Opposition from Industry and Politicians
Powerful groups including the Oregon Farm Bureau, Oregon Cattlemen's Association, and Oregon Hunters Association oppose the initiative. The Farm Bureau warned it would "expose farmers, ranchers, veterinarians, breeders and animal owners to criminal liability for standard, humane practices essential to animal health, food production and genetic management."
Oregon Senators Anthony Broadman (Democrat) and David Brock-Smith (Republican) united against the proposal. Broadman argued: "Buying locally raised foods at the farmers market would be outlawed while restaurant and grocery prices would increase substantially due to the need to ship meat and dairy products from out of state. Hunting and fishing for food is part of Oregon's heritage."
Historical Context and Likely Outcome
This is not PEACE's first attempt, but even if it reaches the ballot, the initiative faces long odds. With roughly three million registered voters, a majority would need to approve it, and similar measures have failed elsewhere. Michelson expects the initiative to fail, though the campaign continues to push for change.
