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Stand up for democracy in Ohio - vote no on Issue 2

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To the editor: The word "socialism" has been thrown around a lot lately. While it's true there are some socialist programs and ways of thinking in our country, we remain a nation whose ideals and vision center around democracy. And while we can debate some of the finer points of democracy, we probably can agree in the right to vote for those who represent us on all levels of government - local, state and federal. Therefore, if we truly believe in democracy, we do not want Issue 2 to pass because it will amend the Ohio state constitution to allow a Livestock Care Standards Board to be established. We will not get to vote for the 13 people on this board; instead, the Ohio governor, speaker of the House and president of the Senate will select and appoint the board members. When government officials select and appoint board members who make decisions for the state without an established forum for public comment and no ability to appeal the board's decisions, isn't this a bit socialistic? Currently, animal agriculture is regulated by the Ohio Department of Agriculture which makes rules through a formal process that requires public input (Ohio Rev. Code § 119.03(C) (2009)). According to Jim Surber in last week's HCP article Let's stand up for livestock producers, if Issue 2 passes, the new 13-person board will have "...total authority over standards relating to the care of farm animals." Do we want a board who has unchecked power over all Ohio policies related to animals in agriculture and could radically shift livestock standards in any direction? I regularly read Jim Surber's articles and respect his opinions-he comes across as someone who thinks deeply about the democratic process. So, I'm flabbergasted as to why he promotes passing Issue 2 on the grounds that it will prevent Ohio voters from being able to vote on livestock care regulations in the future. Changing the Ohio state constitution to take away the people's right to vote is plain, flat out undemocratic. Even though I don't always agree with voting results, I wholeheartedly agree with our democratic voting process. If you believe in democracy, please vote no on Issue 2 to maintain your right to vote and have the opportunity to voice your opinion on livestock care issues in the future. Sincerely, Beth Ann Gehres, Hillsboro[[In-content Ad]]

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