Crook County Democrats oppose animal rights petition that could restrict hunting, fishing and agriculture
PRINEVILLE, Ore. — Crook County Democrats are taking a firm stand against a proposed Oregon ballot measure they say would go too far. The local party has unanimously adopted a resolution opposing Initiative Petition 28, also known as the PEACE Act, a measure that would remove long-standing exemptions from state animal cruelty laws for hunting, fishing, trapping and farming.
The group says the petition would effectively criminalize activities that are a part of daily life and Oregon’s economy. Supporters of the measure argue it would expand protections for animals by ending exemptions that allow animals to be harmed or killed in hunting, agriculture, research and pest control.
What the petition would do
According to the petition language, IP28 would redefine how Oregon law treats animals by removing many of the exceptions now in place. That would mean hunting, fishing, slaughtering livestock, animal research and some pest control practices could all be treated as crimes if the measure qualifies for the ballot and wins voter approval.
Crook County Democrats say the scope of the proposal goes far beyond cruelty prevention. In their resolution, they warn the measure could affect farmers, ranchers, anglers and hunters, while also threatening jobs tied to Oregon’s agricultural industry.
Why Democrats are opposing it
The Crook County Democrats argue the state should protect animals without shutting down lawful agricultural and recreational practices. They say Oregon’s agricultural economy is a major part of the state, and that IP28 would create serious consequences for food production, processing, and rural livelihoods.
Their resolution calls for more “balanced, practical approaches” to animal welfare instead of a measure they say would criminalize essential practices. The party also says the proposal could harm Oregon’s long-term food security and invites voters and leaders to take a closer look at the measure’s wider impact.
Who supports and opposes it
Backers of IP28 say the PEACE Act would extend protections now given to pets to other animals, including livestock, fish and wildlife. On the campaign’s website, supporters say the measure would expand protections against abuse and killing, while still allowing exemptions for self-defense and veterinary care.
Opposition is also building. Groups that support hunting and farming, including the Oregon Hunters Association and the National Wild Turkey Federation, have come out against the petition, saying it would effectively ban hunting, fishing and traditional farming practices. Crook County Democrats now join that list of opponents, though from a different political angle, saying the proposal would do too much damage to rural communities and agriculture.
Next steps
IP28 is still working to qualify for Oregon’s November 2026 ballot. Supporters must collect enough valid signatures by the state’s deadline before voters can even decide the issue.
