Federal Lawsuit Challenges North Carolina's New Ag-Gag Law

A new North Carolina law allows companies to sue whistleblowers who conduct undercover investigations and release that information to the public.

It's known as the Property Protection Act, or “Ag-Gag” legislation.

A group of several organizations has filed a federal lawsuit challenging its constitutionality.

Farmers will benefit from the new legislation, but it applies to companies statewide. Supporters of the law say it helps protect companies from activists posing as employees and strengthens private property rights. 

But critics disagree, saying the only thing it protects is unethical or illegal business practices.

Elon Law Professor Enrique Armijo says the law raises several concerns.

“I think we run a real risk when we close the doors and turn off the lights of these industries such as agriculture, the nursing home industry, and these industries that offer a public service,” says Armijo. “I think when you call what's going on behind those doors private, it creates a lot of problems.”

Armijo says North Carolina isn't the only state that has passed Ag-Gag laws in recent years. Similar laws in Idaho and Utah have also provoked legal challenges.

You can hear an extended interview with WFDD's Keri Brown and Elon Law Professor Enrique Armijo about what's inside the controversial legislation by clicking on the play button above.

*Follow Keri Brown on Twitter @kerib_news