Alternative Livestock License Moratorium Petition and Call
PETITION OF THE FIFTY-SIXTH LEGISLATURE FOR A CALL OF SPECIAL SESSION
WHEREAS, the alternative livestock producers of Montana are deeply concerned aboutthe threats posed by chronic wasting disease to Montana's domestic and wild elk populations;and
WHEREAS, there is substantial controversy and difference of opinion with regard to therelationship between alternative livestock ranches, wild game animals, and chronic wastingdisease; and
WHEREAS, the alternative livestock industry and others are expending significantresources to learn more about this disease; and
WHEREAS, there are national efforts directed at developing a test on live animals todetermine the presence of chronic wasting disease; and
WHEREAS, Article V, section 6, of The Constitution of the State of Montana and section5-3-101, MCA, provide that the Legislature may be convened in special session at the request ofa majority of the members.
NOW, THEREFORE, WE THE UNDERSIGNED, being a majority of the members ofthe Fifty-Sixth Legislature, pursuant to Article V, section 6, of the Montana Constitution andsection 5-3-101, MCA, hereby convene the Fifty-Sixth Legislature into special session in Helena,to run concurrently with the special session beginning May 8, 2000, called by the Governor.
The special session hereby convened shall consider legislation to impose a moratoriumon new applications for new alternative livestock ranch licenses until such time as a live test forchronic wasting disease is developed and is approved by the Department of Livestock.
