Michigan farm groups mad over Governor’s meatless decision | Farm and Dairy - The Auction Guide and Rural Marketplace

LANSING, Michigan — A resolution proclaiming March 20 a “meatless” day is being called a “meat-headed” decision by the state’s top agriculture groups.

The resolution, sponsored by the Great American Meatout of Michigan, was endorsed by Mich. Gov. Jennifer Granholm and “encourages the residents of this state to choose not to eat meat.”

The resolution is critical of dairy and livestock foods, blaming them for sickening millions of Americans and says vegans and vegetarians are on the rise, with increased benefits of meat-free diets.

But many in the farm industry, and consumers, are outraged.

“Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s resolution is quite possibly the most meat-headed idea yet coming from a tone-deaf administration that is out of touch with agriculture and the jobs and opportunities we provide to Michigan citizens,” said Jim Byrum, president of Michigan Agri-Business Association, in a released statement.

Byrum is one of many who are asking for an apology from the governor. So far, none has been issued, but her office acted quickly in later declaring the same day Michigan Agriculture Day.