Stray Voltage Case Raises Legal and Insurance Questions for Dairy Producers

TOPEKA, KANSAS (RFD NEWS) — The effects of stray voltage in agriculture are well-documented, but the legal challenges that follow can be far less clear. A recent case involving a dairy farm highlighted those complexities after a sudden operational decline tied to an electrical issue.

Farm legal expert Roger McEowen joined us on Wednesday’s Market Day Report to break down the case and its implications for producers.

In his interview with RFD NEWS, McEowen provided background on the case and outlined the key factors that contributed to the court’s decision. He also explained that the situation highlights what he calls a “catch-22” for many farmers facing stray voltage concerns.

Finally, McEowen emphasized several takeaways for producers facing similar electrical issues, focusing on what operations should keep in mind moving forward.

Related Stories

Washington Policy

Federal Grazing Policy Shift May Offer Ranchers Flexibility as Some Reassess Land Use and Lease Options

ASFMRA’s Chad Hertz joins us to discuss farmland trends, economic pressures facing producers, and how outside influences are shaping today’s land market.

May 13, 2026 03:53 PM

Tony St. James

Business

Mexico and Canada Tighten Pork Restrictions Following U.S. Pseudorabies Cases

Andy Tauer from the National Pork Board discusses efforts to boost pork demand and how the industry is responding to trade restrictions related to pseudorabies.

May 13, 2026 12:50 PM

Neal Burnette-Irwin

Washington Policy

Farm and Fertilizer Groups Push Senate for Relief as Input Costs Climb

Dr. Robert Ellis joins us to discuss economic challenges in agriculture, available resources for farmers, and ways producers can evaluate practices to strengthen their operations.

May 13, 2026 12:42 PM

Marion Kirkpatrick

Washington Policy

House Moves Closer to a Possible Vote on Year-Round E15 Sales

While there is no guarantee a House vote will happen today, the measure has officially been placed on the congressional calendar.

May 13, 2026 12:10 PM

Marion Kirkpatrick

This Week in Louisiana Agriculture

Louisiana Dairy Family Looks to Reverse Decades of Industry Decline

Sinagra Family Dairy is focused on expanding local milk production and supporting its rural community.

May 13, 2026 11:52 AM

Craig Gautreaux

FFA Today

FFA Today: Kansas FFA President Lillian Hulse Talks State Convention

Hulse discusses leadership, college life and what members can expect at this year’s convention.

May 13, 2026 11:37 AM

Neal Burnette-Irwin

Marion Kirkpatrick

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Firm to Farm

Firm to Farm: More on the complexities of financial gift giving

If you are thinking about making substantial gifts and/or doing so in a complicated fashion, make sure to get good professional advice beforehand. In his latest Firm to Farm blog post, RFD-TV Agri-Legal Expert Roger McEowen tackles the complex rules surrounding financial gifts, charitable donations and estate transfer.

December 15, 2023 03:12 PM

Roger A. McEowen

Sustainability

University of Kentucky arborists cultivate an unforgettable on-campus experience through urban forestry

A glimpse into the mindset of the University of Kentucky’s trio of arborists as they relish their role in fostering healthy urban spaces across campus.

December 14, 2023 01:12 PM

Charlsie McKay

Spend a Minute with the Experts!

AARP Live Minute: Christmas shopping online? Watch out for these 3 Amazon imposter scams!

Getting strange calls or texts from “Amazon” after placing holiday gift orders? In this AARP Live Minute, experts from AARP reveal three Amazon imposter scams to watch out for as you navigate the holiday season.

December 14, 2023 11:28 AM

RFD NEWS STAFF

Firm to Farm

Firm to Farm: Feeling “detached and disinterested?” Then gift giving is for you! (According to the IRS.)

But, what does “detached and disinterested” mean? When is a transfer of funds a gift — at least in the eyes of the IRS? That is the topic of today’s Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV’s Agri-Legal Expert Roger A.McEowen.

December 13, 2023 11:07 AM

Roger A. McEowen

Firm to Farm

Firm to Farm: Probate Fees — How Much are They?

Just how much are probate fees? How are they determined? That is the topic of today’s Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV’s Agri-Legal Expert Roger A. McEowen.

December 12, 2023 11:23 AM

Roger A. McEowen

Firm to Farm

Firm to Farm: The Importance of Proper Asset Titling

The distinction between co-tenancy and joint tenancy and why it matters — is the topic of today’s Firm to Farm blog post by RFD-TV Agri-Legal Expert Roger McEowen.

December 11, 2023 02:13 PM

Roger A. McEowen

Stray Voltage Case Raises Legal and Insurance Questions for Dairy Producers

Farm legal expert Roger McEowen highlights the legal challenges surrounding stray voltage, a recent court decision, and what it means for agricultural producers.