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The following is strictly my own opinion. HB1396 needs to be killed deader than a rock. This bill changes the way corporate farms are structured, from the present family members only as shareholders, to "anyone" as shareholders. The "anyone" is the frightening part. It opens the door for massive corporate take overs in farm country. It will consolidate farms, put family farmers out of business and bypass small town retailers. As a farmer and hunter, I am dead set against it. This bill had a 9-3 DO NOT PASS from the Ag Committee, but was slid through 53-40 in the house, sending it on to the senate.
This is how it affects sportsmen. Anytime corporations own rural property, they are extremely unlikely to allow access of any kind, hunting or fishing, on that property. Witness the private timber holdings around the country, and Ted Turners treatment of hunters on his ranches. This bill could open up corporate land holdings exclusively for outfitters also.
The Alliance is opposing this bill. Hopefully the NDWF will do the same. I know ND Farmers Union is also adamantly opposed to 1396. I am hoping you fellow outdoorsmen will zip your senator an email to vote NO on 1396. The urban as well as rural senators need to hear from you. This is not just a rural issue, don't assume that just because it is a farming bill it does not affect you. It does.
This is how it affects sportsmen. Anytime corporations own rural property, they are extremely unlikely to allow access of any kind, hunting or fishing, on that property. Witness the private timber holdings around the country, and Ted Turners treatment of hunters on his ranches. This bill could open up corporate land holdings exclusively for outfitters also.
The Alliance is opposing this bill. Hopefully the NDWF will do the same. I know ND Farmers Union is also adamantly opposed to 1396. I am hoping you fellow outdoorsmen will zip your senator an email to vote NO on 1396. The urban as well as rural senators need to hear from you. This is not just a rural issue, don't assume that just because it is a farming bill it does not affect you. It does.