Oklahoma Farm Bureau has joined a coalition opposing State Question 805, which will be voted on by Oklahomans in the Nov. 3 general election.
SQ 805 seeks to amend the Oklahoma Constitution by preventing a criminal’s previous non-violent felony convictions from being used to enhance his or her current sentence for a non-violent felony conviction. The measure would allow convicted felons who repeatedly commit crimes, including livestock theft, property crimes and other agricultural crimes, to be treated as first-time offenders.
With longstanding policy that calls for strong penalties on agricultural crimes, OKFB opposes the measure due to concerns over its potential impact in rural communities, specifically with the theft of livestock and farm or ranch equipment.
“For decades, Farm Bureau members have stood for protecting property rights and promoting public safety,” said OKFB President Rodd Moesel. “Unfortunately, those of us in agriculture are all too familiar with cattle theft and other property crimes that can cost our farm families thousands of dollars. A no vote on State Question 805 will protect the safety of our treasured rural communities by ensuring habitual offenders continue to be punished appropriately.”
OKFB is joined in the coalition by other statewide agricultural organizations including Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association.
More information on SQ 805 can be found at No805.org. Find more OKFB voter resources at okfarmbureau.org/vote.
