Senate committee approves bill to exempt poultry nutrient‑management plans from public inspection

Senator Blake Johnson (District 21) told the Senate Agriculture, Forestry & Economic Development Committee that House Bill 17‑07 would make poultry farmers’ nutrient‑management plans confidential and exempt them from public inspection under the Freedom of Information Act. "It keeps nutrient management plan chicken farmers information private and, from public inspection and exempt from the Freedom of Information Act," he said during the committee hearing.

The committee recorded no public testimony in opposition. After brief discussion the committee adopted a motion to pass the bill (moved by Senator Gilmore and seconded by Senator Deese) and advanced the measure by voice vote.

Supporters said the bill aims to protect farm‑specific operational details while retaining legislative oversight. Opponents did not appear in the committee record; no formal roll‑call vote was requested, and the committee chair declared the measure passed.

The bill now proceeds to the next staged consideration in the legislative process.