If you live near Pittsburgh, you may have noticed a rodeo tour here. In 1992, the city of Pittsburgh banned practices used at rodeos, like electric prods and bucking straps, which inflict intense pain and cause injuries to animals. This effectively banned rodeos from the city.
This local law is now in jeopardy due to a last-minute amendment in the state budget. This amendment, passed without any time for public input, preempts Pittsburgh’s rodeo ban, allowing rodeos to perform anywhere in Pennsylvania, regardless of local laws. This undermines local autonomy and nullifies the will of local governments and constituents.
The inclusion of this provision raises serious questions about transparency and accountability in our legislative process. It signals to special interest groups they can bypass local governments by working behind closed doors with state politicians. This is not aligned with the democratic process we should demand.
We must stand against subversion of local autonomy and democratic principles. Whether you care about rodeos or not, the more significant issue is the erosion of our ability to govern ourselves at the local level. Let’s demand transparency, accountability and respect for the democratic process from our state legislators.
Natalie Ahwesh
South Side
The writer is executive director of Humane Action Pittsburgh.