Confusing Statements on Amendment 1

Confusing statements continue to be put forth about Amendment 1 by those opposing its passage.  As we are now only a week away from the August Primary Election, I want to make certain people know exactly what they are voting on and what the effects of Amendment 1 will be.

One of the myths being put forward by the opposition is that it is for the benefit of large foreign-owned corporations and will open the door for sale of Missouri farmland to international buyers.  While this makes a good scare tactic, it has no shred of truth to it.  Section 442.571 specifically limits foreign ownership of Missouri farmland to 1 percent or less of the total acreage.  As we are currently close to that 1 percent figure now, large sales of our farmland to foreign entities cannot be allowed now or in the near future.

Another claim being put forth by those opposing Amendment 1 is that all local control will be eliminated.  This concern was addressed in the drafting of the language by including the words “subject to duly authorized powers, if any, conferred by Article VI of the Constitution of Missouri.”  Article VI is where the authority and responsibilities of local governments are contained. 

Production agriculture in our state has been increasingly under attack from outside interests.  Most farmers and ranchers run small- to medium-size operations and are just trying to keep the bills paid and provide for their families.  They don’t have the resources to sustain a costly legal fight just to be able to run their farms.  As we saw from Proposition B, an attempt was made to limit the size of privately owned businesses in Missouri.  I am not aware of any other industry that has faced such a restriction on their operations.  Passage of Amendment 1 will give our state’s agricultural producers a significant tool to keep their farms and ranches running

We are now down to the final few days before this important election.  I believe this is the best chance we will have in our lifetime to keep Missouri agriculture viable for future generations.  Amendment 1 affects all Missourians.  If Missouri’s farmers and ranchers are allowed to do what they do best, it means a cheap, safe, and reliable supply of food will be available to feed the citizens of our state and the world.  Join me in voting YES on Amendment 1.