DES MOINES, IOWA -- Some undercover stings may become a thing of the past if the Iowa General Assembly passes a bill that is working its way through the legislature this week.
The Iowa House has approved a bill making it illegal for animal rights activists to produce and distribute secret videos of mistreatment of farm animals.
The bill was approved by a 65-27 vote on Thursday. It prohibits the recordings and punishes those who take jobs only to gain access to animals to record their treatment. Proposed penalties include up to five years in prison and fines of up to $7,500.
Animal rights activists say Iowa would be the first state to approve such restrictions, although Florida is considering similar legislation.
Supporters say it encourages people to report mistreatment through the normal channels. Opponents say it places a chill on anti-cruelty investigations.
A Senate committee has approved a companion bill, but floor debate hasn't been scheduled.
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