The U.S. Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a ruling yesterday (Monday) upholding the constitutionality of Iowa’s agricultural trespass laws. The laws in question were signed by Gov. Kim Reynolds in 2019 and 2021 to prevent unauthorized access to agricultural production facilities with the intent to cause physical harm or economic damage but were held up by district court rulings that found they violated First Amendment protections. However, the new federal decisions overturned the prior ones. Reynolds lauded the ruling as a win for both Iowans and the nation, emphasizing the vital role Iowa farmers play in global food production. She says, “Iowa farmers feed and fuel the world and are an essential part of the global food supply chain. No longer will people be able to gain access or employment to agricultural production facilities with the intent to cause physical injury or economic harm. We will always stand up for the security and safety of our farmers and their land.” Similarly, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird hailed the federal appeals court’s rulings as a triumph for Iowa farmers and property owners, saying, “For too long, our farmers have battled with trespassers, people lying to get jobs, and hidden recording devices. But not any longer. With today’s win, we will enforce Iowa’s agriculture trespass laws, strengthen security, and put those fears to rest.” Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig echoed these sentiments, affirming the court’s decision as a victory for Iowa farmers, “The Legislature and Gov. Reynolds enacted these laws to safeguard our ag community and protect our food security. It is welcome news that Iowa producers can now be protected from trespassers, and it sends a clear message to those who maliciously target our livestock farms.” It is not certain if the ruling will be appealed to the higher courts.
