By Andi Anderson
Ohio’s agriculture sector celebrates a major legislative victory as the Feral Swine Bill (H.B. 503) unanimously passed the Ohio Senate 31-0 after an earlier 89-0 vote in the Ohio House.
This bipartisan effort aims to combat the significant economic and disease threats posed by non-native feral swine. The bill now awaits Governor Mike DeWine’s signature to become law.
Cheryl Day, executive vice president of the Ohio Pork Council, praised the effort, saying, “This historic bipartisan vote ensures greater protection for Ohio’s farmers against costly foreign animal diseases.” She highlighted the leadership of Representatives Don Jones and Bob Peterson and Senator Tim Schaffer in championing the bill.
Feral swine cause an estimated $2.5 billion in damage annually across the U.S. agricultural sector, according to the USDA. These wild pigs harm Ohio’s land, crops, and water resources, further underscoring the urgency of enacting this legislation.
The Ohio Veterinary Medical Association noted that feral swine carry over 30 diseases and nearly 40 parasites, making their control essential for animal and environmental health.
The legislation bans hunting and importing feral swine into Ohio, positioning the state as a leader in agriculture and animal health. Broad support from groups like the Ohio Farm Bureau, Ohio Dairy Producers Association, and Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association emphasizes the importance of this step.
Democratic Representative Juanita Brent called the bill “proactive,” stating it ensures Ohio’s agricultural standards remain strong. Day concluded, “We are at a monumental point for protecting livestock and crops, and we urge the governor to sign this into law.”
This law promises to safeguard Ohio’s farming future by addressing the growing threats posed by feral swine to crops, livestock, and the environment.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-grafvision
Categories: Ohio, Livestock, Hogs