LOS ANGELES, California – New regulations will now govern the sale of pork in California, as it must now comply with Proposition 12. This law prohibits the extreme confinement of farm animals, such as gestation crates, which are small metal cages that often prevent sows from turning around. The law, which came into effect in 2018, has already enforced provisions regarding egg-laying hens and veal calves.
Amber Canavan, manager of campaigns at People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, commends the law but notes that other forms of animal cruelty are still permitted. The pork industry has appealed Proposition 12 to the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled in favor of states’ right to regulate the meat industry. The law has reportedly led to egg price increases and shortages over the past six years.
Meanwhile, the fight has now shifted to Congress, where lawmakers are considering the EATS Act. The legislation seeks to invalidate many states’ agriculture and food safety laws, including Proposition 12. Public health groups argue that extreme confinement of animals can compromise their immune systems, making them more susceptible to diseases that can spread to humans.
In another article, food advocates are urging households in Wisconsin to consider vegan options for holiday meals. Mary Telfer, from the Wisconsin-based organization Alliance for Animals, encourages people to explore vegan recipes and consider plant-based alternatives for traditional holiday dishes. Telfer emphasizes the benefits of vegan diets, citing concerns about animal treatment, human health, and the environmental effects of food production.
Furthermore, a proposed amendment to the 2023 Farm Bill called the EATS Act is raising concerns among animal-welfare and family-farm advocates. They argue that the legislation jeopardizes states’ authority to regulate their own farming practices. Opponents of the EATS Act believe it is necessary to streamline interstate commerce and prevent states from passing laws that infringe on farmers in other states.
In a separate report, animal rights voices in Wisconsin stress the importance of taking precautions to protect pets from extreme heat, as the Midwest experiences more frequent heat waves due to climate change. Kristin Schrank, board vice president of the Alliance for Animals, advises pet owners to ensure their animals have access to clean water and shade during hot stretches. She also warns about the risks of leaving pets in hot vehicles or outside in extreme heat without protection.
The need for greater awareness and proactive measures to safeguard the well-being of animals in various contexts remains a pressing issue in the United States and beyond.