NC Groups Challenge Laws Favoring Industrial Hog Operations

On June 19, North Carolina environmental and community groups filed a constitutional challenge to state laws that limit nuisance lawsuits against industrial hog operations.

The four environmental organizations involved in the lawsuit contend that community members’ individual property rights are violated by the stench, noxious gases and particulate pollution from the hog facilities.

The organizations also are concerned that the laws discriminate against minority groups. African-Americans, Latinos and Native Americans are twice as likely to live within three miles of the hog operations, according to their press release.

The suit will be heard in Wake County Superior Court. A hearing date is not yet set. — By Sam Kepple