Activating Change - The Dassingers

In 2017, North Dakota Rancher, Gary Dassinger became a victim of a change in the Century Code that was pushed by the Humane Society of the United States and back channels after it was initially defeated by the people of North Dakota. This change allowed for the seizure of a person’s animals after any complaint (credible or not), as well as the sale of those animals with no notice to the owner or hearing. Thankfully, after a year long battle and with the help of his daughter, Protect The Harvest and many others, Dassinger successfully fought to keep his livestock and his 40 year horse breeding program. After Dassinger’s situation was publicized by Protect The Harvest, and the language in the Century Code exposed, farming and ranching leaders in North Dakota along with lawmakers took action. In early 2019, the state passed Senate bill 2177, which further amended the Century Code. It now requires a reasonable inquiry to be done to find the owner of the animal before seizure. It also allows the animal owner to request a hearing in court before a final ruling on the disposition of the animal. This allows the animal owner the right to due process before property is seized from them. Additionally, it mandates that the Chief Brand Inspector be involved once an animal is seized to ensure the rightful ownership of the animal throughout the process. We are extremely pleased to see that these amendments passed without a single opposing vote, which shows a state that is willing to stand up for its residents and their property rights. The result of Gary Dassinger’s legal fight is a strong lesson to farmers, ranchers, and animal owners in North Dakota and around the country. It reminds us all to take notice of changes in the law. It is also a lesson for many not to assume that farming and ranching communities are protected from animal right- influenced changes. Most importantly, it shows what can be done to reverse animal rights-influenced laws by simply making the public aware and pulling together as a community. LEARN MORE: https://protecttheharvest.com/initiatives/north-dakota-rancher-gary-dassinger/