A controversial bill which would allow business owners to sue employees who secretly record at the workplace has been vetoed by Governor Pat McCrory.
The measure is officially named the Property Protection Act. But its more widely known as the ‘Ag-Gag’ bill.
The measure was widely supported by Republican lawmakers in Raleigh who said these protections were needed for all businesses. Animal rights groups argued the bill specifically targeted their undercover activities at poultry, cattle and other farms. Those recordings have shown some cases of animal mistreatment and health violations in the past. Other opponents say the bill would deter whistleblowers, no matter the industry.
Today, Governor McCrory agreed. In a statement he said “I believe (the bill) does not adequately protect or give clear guidance to honest employees who uncover criminal activity.”
This is the second time in as many days the Republican governor has vetoed a bill supported by lawmakers in his party. Thursday, he vetoed a bill that would allow magistrates to refuse to perform same sex marriages.
McCrory says more vetoes are on the way. Speaking at a meeting of North Carolina’s public-private economic development board, the governor said he was not going to let three or five people in the legislature block progress in North Carolina, adding “I don’t care what party they’re from.”