Legislative Blog
J.B. Williams, J.D.
Proposition 1 for November 7, 2023 - YES
A Blog about Right to Farming and et al
A Bit of Background
The following backgrounds help summarize the author's views on both the general topic: Texas and more specifically Right to Farming and et al as it relates to that topic.
Brief Summary of Texas
Texas is truly a Republic. There are a multitude of items that to modify the state constitution must be modified. So there are times when Constitutional amendments are on the voting ballots. While I sometimes abhor the wording, the concept that all of those legally able to vote in Texas must vote on the change is a good one. And bills in Texas are generally short, making it easier for everyone to understand.
Summary of Right to Farming and et al
Farming, ranching, timber production, horticulture, or wildlife management
Blog Summary
It appears to protect people's right to do these on their own property or property they are leasing.
Proposition 1 for November 7, 2023 - YES
Published: 2023-10-11
It is meant to protect people's right to engage in generally accepted farming, ranching, timber production, horticulture, or wildlife management practices on real property that they own or lease. It still permits the legislature to pass law regulating these when they are necessary to protect public health and safety from imminent danger; to prevent danger to animal health or crop production; or to preserve or conserve the natural resources of the state.
This portion was not in the introduced bill but later added before it's passage. And it doesn't prevent the legislature to authorize use or acquisition of property for public use, including the development of natural resources.
Now I'm not sure exactly what this is meant to protect against as it seems the legislature can still pass laws directly what can and cannot be done. But someone has seen something that makes them want to ensure the these practices are protected in general. I'm not sure if this is something related to climate change. And I'm not sure if it is more to appease those concerned about this right being taken away or if they truly see this right potentially being limited.
Whatever the basis, I don't believe this gives the legislature more power than it has already regarding laws. And therefore, I will be voting in favor of this bill on the November 7, 2023 election. It will appear as Proposition 1 as a Right to Protect farming, ranching, timber production, horticulture, or wildlife management.
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