INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Opponents of an Indiana Senate bill that would ban local governments from placing restrictions on large livestock farms say the proposal would strip away counties' authority over those farms.
The bill would prevent local officials from adopting rules that go beyond what is required by state law regarding the construction of livestock structures in agricultural areas.
Local officials and environmentalists told the Senate Agriculture Committee on Monday that the bill would prevent local oversight of large livestock farms they say pose threats to water and air quality.
Supporters said numerous counties have passed ordinances against new livestock barn building and farm owners' rights are being violated.
Senate Agriculture Committee Chairwoman Jean Leising of Oldenburg said the committee needs more information about current county regulations before any action is taken.
