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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - Gov. Gary Herbert is being urged to veto a bill prohibiting filming on farms, ranches and dairies.
Mercy for Animals executive director Nathan Runkle said Friday the prohibition protects agricultural operations that mistreat animals and discourages employees from getting evidence of illegal activities.
Runkle says the group will sue the state if the law is enacted.
Republican Rep. John Mathis of Vernal says the purpose is to prevent animal rights groups from taking pictures or video to use as propaganda.
The bill passed by the Legislature earlier this week only makes it a crime if a person accesses the property by lying about their intent.
Supporters say it would not impact people taking pictures during a farm tour or whistleblowers who report illegal practices at an agricultural facility.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
