Coalition Forms to Oppose California Animal Welfare Initiative

July 21, 2008 — 

A group of agricultural groups, veterinarians, family farmers, businesses and individuals have formed a coalition to oppose animal welfare-related "Proposition 2" which will appear on California's November ballot.

Californians for SAFE Food (www.safecaliforniafood.org)opposes the initiative that would require that gestation sows, egg-laying hens and veal calves have enough room to lie down, stand, turn around and fully extend their limbs.

The proposition could essentially end the use of gestation sow stalls in California, following similar actions in Colorado and Oregon, Arizona and Florida.

The coalition, which includes the National Pork Producers Council, California Cattlemen's Association and Pacific Egg and Poultry Association, among several others, says the proposition, sponsored by a coalition of animal rights groups, would jeopardize food safety and drive up food costs.

Source:
MeatingPlace.com, July 21, 2008
By Janie Gabbett