When Congress returns from its August recess, the House of Representatives is expected to vote on House Resolution 503. This bill would ban the slaughter and processing of horses for consumption. Paxton Ramsey, a rancher and horseman from Devers, Texas, and a member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, recently testified against H.R. 503 at a House Agriculture Committee hearing. He explains why livestock producers should be very concerned about this legislation.  

Cut #1         :23         Outcue... "able to pass that bill."

Ramsey says that while slaughter may not be an appealing option for unusable horses, it is a necessary alternative. Banning it would create many problems. 

Cut #2         :30         Outcue... "humane option for horse owners."

He pointed out that horse slaughter is usually a last resort, after the owner has exhausted every other alternative.

Cut #3         :43         Outcue... "one reason or another."

Ramsey said that in addition to the practical problems a horse slaughter ban would create, it also builds momentum for those who object to the slaughter of any livestock. 

Cut #4         :27         Outcue... "in their sights."

Ramsey added that farmers and ranchers need to contact their congressmen, and make sure that agriculture’s voice isn’t drowned out by the activists pushing H.R. 503. 

Cut #5         :26         Outcue... "lose this fight."

For more information on H.R. 503 or to send a letter to your member of Congress,
visit http://capwiz.com/beefusa