SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Proposition 12, a law aimed at improving the living conditions of farm animals in California, is now expanding its reach to include pork products. The law, passed in 2018, prohibits the use of gestation crates for sows and has already affected egg-laying hens and veal calves. While animal rights advocates praise Proposition 12, they argue that it still allows for various forms of animal cruelty within the pork industry.
The legality of Proposition 12 was challenged by the pork industry, but the U.S. Supreme Court upheld states’ rights to regulate the meat industry. However, the industry continues to contest the law’s impact, claiming that it has led to increased egg prices and shortages over the past six years.
The debate now extends to Congress, where the proposed EATS Act seeks to invalidate many state agriculture and food safety laws, including Proposition 12. Advocates for the EATS Act argue that it is necessary to streamline interstate commerce and prevent states from imposing laws that affect farmers in other states.
However, opponents of the EATS Act argue that it could jeopardize over 1,000 public health, safety, and animal welfare laws, potentially leading to negative impacts on water resources, wildlife, and human health. The future of the Farm Bill remains uncertain in light of the ongoing debate over the EATS Act.
In conclusion, the expansion of Proposition 12 to include pork products in California has sparked continued debate regarding state and federal regulations in the meat industry. The clash between animal welfare advocates and the pork industry reflects a broader discussion about the balance between state and federal control in agriculture and food safety regulations.