Success: ‘Ag-Gag’ Law Punishing Animal Rights Defenders Struck Down

Target: Stephen Wells, Executive Director of the Animal Legal Defense Fund

Goal: Support the efforts of advocates to expose agricultural animal cruelty.

The legal system of one state just gave a significant win to endangered animals while dealing a blow to potential animal abusers. This ForceChange petition urged the end of an Iowa law that forbid undercover animal welfare advocates from securing evidence of animal cruelty at agricultural centers. A federal judge sided with those lobbying for justice by striking down the controversial, anti-animal rights law.

This piece of legislation came about seven years ago after multiple cases of horrific alleged abuse at farms and slaughterhouses were filmed and otherwise documented by undercover journalists or employees. Rather than focus on the atrocious crimes allegedly being committed at these ‘businesses,’ Iowa legislators instead targeted the messengers. The resulting ‘Ag-Gag’ law criminalized efforts to infiltrate suspect agricultural facilities, labeling the false statements and information provided to employers as ‘fraud.’

Now, Judge James Gritzner has put the focus back where it belongs—on the alleged perpetrators of animal cruelty. In a January ruling, the judge stated in no uncertain terms that this law violated the free speech of individuals who wanted to expose serious crimes. As a result, those who would exploit and hurt innocent animals no longer have a shield of protection from their state government.

Sign this petition to thank a key opponent of ‘Ag-Gag,’ the Animal Legal Defense Fund, for their dedicated efforts in helping secure this important victory.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Mr. Wells,

“A win for free speech and animal protection”: your proclamation about the recent reversal of Iowa’s ‘Ag-Gag’ law could not be more fitting. This legislation was an affront to animal welfare causes and a legal assist for those individuals who harm the animals entrusted to their care. The rejection of this archaic law by a federal judge sends a strong, decisive message.

Thank you for helping lead the fight against such an ill-advised and ill-informed effort. An end to ‘ag-gag’ will mean that countless vulnerable farm animals are spared deplorable treatment. More crucially, these animals will now have more impassioned advocates on their side and working for their well-being.

Please use this win as inspiration to continue the fight to ensure that free speech and animal rights emerge victorious in every state.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo Credit: MercyForAnimalsMFA