DeKalb can do better than horse slaughtering

DUANE L. BURRIGHT JR.

Editor: On Thursday, Rep. Bob Molaro's legislation to prohibit horse slaughter in Illinois (SB 1921 with the first House amendment) was called for a vote. Your publication falsely states that this legislation failed. For your information, it neither failed nor passed. Since it didn't get the requisite 60 votes either way, it can be called again, and it will be. Some legislators who originally supported the bill were apparently convinced by representatives Bill Black and Bob Pritchard that Cavel's plant would be good for the state's economy and provide jobs. What the honorable representatives don't mention is that the jobs are very low-paying and have a high turnover rate. Not the kind of jobs Illinois needs. Mr. Molaro's legislation is supported by the Illinois Thorough-bred Industry, which provides 35,000 full-time jobs versus Cavel's 40 paltry offerings. Toyota, Mercedes and BMW have auto manufacturing plants here in the United States. They employ proud American auto workers. Why not encourage similar business in Illinois? It would be much better for the economy. Rep. Black is also convinced that passing a ban on horse slaughter may lead to similar bans on the slaughter of cattle, chickens and hogs. In California, horse slaughter was banned in 1998, and beef, chicken and pork still sell well there. Mr. Black, if you should ever visit California, I'll meet you there and take you to a restaurant that serves up great tri-tip BBQ. I encourage people to write their representative asking them to support this legislation. Horse slaughter is about as un-American a business as anything. DeKalb can definitely do better. DUANE L. BURRIGHT JR. South Beloit

Editor's note: The legislation failed to win the 60 votes needed for approval. It failed. The story said that the legislation could be brought up again later this year.