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House reviews bill to address stray voltage on farms; amendment adds definition of 'livestock operator'
Summary
Representative Handy presented the Stray Current/Voltage Remediation Act to give livestock operators a notice, testing and remediation path when animals are affected by stray voltage; Representative Chu's amendment defining 'livestock operator' was accepted and the bill was moved toward a vote.
Representative Handy introduced the Stray Current or Voltage Remediation Act (House Bill 318), explaining that stray voltage — a small voltage difference between two points animals contact — can harm livestock and reduce production, particularly in dairy herds. Handy described the bill as consistent with approaches in other states, establishing an actionable voltage level, a written notice process to electrical entities, a 30‑day window for qualified testing, and remediation obligations if issues are found.
Representative Chu offered Amendment 3 to provide a definition of “livestock operator” — describing a person who, through an agreement with an owner, has authority and responsibility for the care and well‑being of livestock. Handy and supporters said the amendment clarifies the bill and had been accepted by the stakeholders involved, including the farm bureau and dairy producers.
Supporters emphasized the bill is aimed at giving operators a clear path to resolve perceived stray‑voltage problems without immediate litigation, and includes provisions for periodic technical review (a peer‑review/industry review every three years). The sponsor urged members to support the bill as an agreed‑upon compromise between livestock owners and utilities.
The House floor debate placed the amended bill for an upcoming vote; the transcript records the amendment and that voting would be opened, but does not include a final roll‑call tally in the available excerpt.
Quotes (from the floor): "Stray voltage is a phenomenon that can affect livestock … particularly dairy herds," Representative Handy said, describing the bill's notice and 30‑day testing framework. "This amendment merely supplies a definition for livestock operator," Representative Chu said, explaining the need to define the term.
Ending: With the amendment accepted and floor action to open voting recorded, HB 318 moved forward on the House calendar; the transcript excerpt does not include the final vote count.
