In the California Election, we in the Agriculture community were particularly worried about Proposition 2, a measure put forward by the Animal Rights supporting, humane Society of the United States. Much in the same manner that mountain lion hunting was banned statewide, the proposition passed by a large majority, in an ad campaign that was emotion based. It is truly alarming that this precedent has been set. unfortunately California consumers will not see the full consequences until 2015 when the law takes full effect. Higher food prices, and reduced food safety are the result of this short sighted and onerous regulation on the poultry, swine and beef industry.
HSUS sees “compassionate stand,” but ag groups see “vilification of farmers.”
- Prop 2 may be detrimental to animal health.
- AVMA urges state regulators to involve scientists, vets in rulemaking.
By ROD SMITH
CALIFORNIA voters passed the ballot initiative on farm animal housing last week, with almost 66% of voters supporting the measure.
The initiative essentially will close down the commercial egg industry in California, affecting 95% of egg production in the state, and will leave California consumers dependent on eggs shipped in from other states and possibly from Canada and Mexico.
The ban becomes effective in January 2015.
The initiative was carried to the ballot by petition last spring by a coalition of animal activist groups led by Farm Sanctuary and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). Farm Sanctuary and HSUS advocate animal rights, and HSUS openly promotes vegetarianism.
HSUS chief executive officer and president Wayne Pacelle, in a brief statement last Tuesday night, declared that California voters took “a stand for compassion and decency and said systematic mistreatment of animals cannot continue. All animals deserve humane treatment, including animals raised for food.”…
