JEFFERSON CITY — Missouri voters will soon have a chance to vote on a ballot proposal that would protect the work of farmers and ranchers in the Show-Me State.  The proposed constitutional amendment, found in House Joint Resolutions 11& 7, was carried through the upper chamber by Sen. Mike Parson, R-Bolivar.

“Today’s vote is the result of a lot of hard work from a lot of people.  I especially want to thank the hard working farmers and ranchers who took time from their busy schedules to become involved in this issue.  I’d also like to thank the rural and urban senators from both sides of the aisle who put the hard work and dedication of our state’s farmers and ranchers ahead of out-of-state special interest groups that want to undermine Missouri’s values and way of life,” said Sen. Parson.  “As Missouri’s top industry, agriculture is an important economic engine and a crucial component of our state’s financial well being”.   

Sen. Parson continues, “Agriculture provides food, energy, health benefits, jobs, and security, which is the foundation and stabilizing force of our state’s economy.  To protect this vital sector of Missouri — our dedicated Missouri farmers and ranchers — the rights of these industry professionals to engage in their day-to-day operations should be guaranteed by this state.  As each generation becomes more removed from our agricultural roots, it has become more necessary to protect the operations of those who continue to feed and clothe the world. The repercussions of not protecting this way of life would have an enormous global impact.” 

The House resolutions are similar to Senate Joint Resolution 22, sponsored by Sen. Parson. 

The question that will appear before voters asks, “Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to ensure that the right of Missouri citizens to engage in agricultural production and ranching practices shall not be infringed?” 

Voters would see this constitutional amendment on their ballot at the next general election in November or at a special election called by the governor.  For more information on this and other measures ushered through the General Assembly by Sen. Parson, visit www.senate.mo.gov/parson.