Arizona Governor Doug Ducey has vetoed a bill which would have separated farm animals from pets under the state’s animal abuse law.

While the bill kept the same standards in-tact for both farm animals and pets, animal rights groups were concerned that it could lead to a weakening of standards for farm animals in the future.  Farm groups fear anti-animal-agriculture groups could use the law to interfere in livestock production.

The bill would also require that anyone investigating animal abuse on a farm; notify the state Department of Agriculture which could choose to join the investigation.  Animal rights groups say that could lead to a “tip-off” for farmers from “a friendly agency

Governor Ducey issued a statement with the veto saying; “we must ensure that all animals are protected.”  He did say that he is open to working with the bill’s sponsors.