Horse slaughter closer to becoming legal in Oklahoma

Horse slaughtering could soon become legal in Oklahoma

The Senate Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, with a 9 to 0 vote, approved a bill that would allow a horse slaughtering facility in Oklahoma.

Bristow Republican Representative Skye McNiel authored the bill that would end Oklahoma's 50-year ban on the slaughter of horses for human consumption.

Under the bill, the sale of horse meat still would be illegal in Oklahoma, but the export for sale in other countries would be allowed.

Supporters say it would provide a humane option for unwanted, aging horses in Oklahoma.

Animal rights groups have fiercely opposed the measure.

McNiel's bill now heads to the full Senate for consideration.