Current Legislation
Join us in voting “NO” on Question 3 to protect Maine’s animals
The Maine Federation of Humane Societies is opposed to Question 3, which seeks to establish a “Right to Food” in our state constitution. While well-intentioned, the amendment language is seriously flawed and puts Maine’s animals in harm’s way while doing little, if anything, to actually address hunger. By granting Mainers a constitutional right to “grow, raise, harvest, produce and consume the food of their own choosing…as long as an individual does not commit trespassing, theft, poaching or other abuses of private property rights, public lands or natural resources” animals could be at risk of being subjected to terrible conditions without any legal protection. All too often we see cruelty investigations involving chickens, pigs, cows, goats, and other animals commonly raised for food, but the amendment language is so broad, it could be applied to cruelty and neglect situations involving any animal, such as cats, dogs, and horses, if the offender claims they are raising them as their food.
Maine has a long history of being a leader in animal welfare, but if Question 3 passes we will be taking a big step backward.
For more information please see the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals – No on Question 3 page. Question 3 is also opposed by the Maine Veterinary Medical Association, Maine Municipal Association, Maine Farm Bureau, Maine Friends of Animals, Maine Animal Coalition, and more.
Check back soon for information about the 2022 legislative session.