Edmondson leads group to oppose Oklahoma farming proposal

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – A group led by former Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson is opposing a proposed state question on farming, saying the ballot question favors industrial factory farms and foreign corporations at the expense of local farmers.

The Oklahoma Stewardship Council announced Tuesday it will oppose State Question 777, the so-called "Right to Farm" proposal on the November ballot.

Passed by the Legislature last year, the measure calls for a statewide vote on whether the right to farm and ranch in Oklahoma shall be "forever guaranteed." But the proposal would also prohibit the Legislature from affecting that right "without a compelling state interest."

Edmondson says that language could allow large farming corporations to be free from scrutiny and regulation.

Supporters say the amendment would prevent animal rights groups from changing agriculture practices.