NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP, abc24.com) - A proposal that seeks to encourage the practice of slaughtering horses in Tennessee has stalled in the Legislature.
The measure was withdrawn from consideration in the Senate Commerce, Labor and Agriculture Committee on Wednesday. Its sponsor, Republican Sen. Mike Faulk of Kingsport, said he may bring the bill back depending on its movement in the House, where a floor vote has been delayed until Monday evening.
Sponsors say the legislation is necessary to provide a humane way to dispose of unwanted horses.
Opponents of the bill argue that it would unfairly discourage legal challenges of horse slaughter or processing plants by requiring plaintiffs to submit a deposit worth 20 percent of the facility's worth.
Tennessee's attorney general opined earlier this month that requirement is constitutionally suspect.
