Amendment 45 Would Bypass Animal-Welfare Efforts

The US House of Representatives may soon vote on Amendment 45, proposed by Rep. Steve King of Iowa (the largest egg producing state). The amendment to Congress’ Farm Bill aims to block multiple states’ current efforts to better the lives of animals killed for food, forcing them to allow banned meat, egg, and dairy products across state lines. If it were to pass, the ban of foie gras in California would not apply to the “delicacy” when it comes into the Golden State from elsewhere in the country. Additionally, California’s Proposition 2, which requires an increase in cage space for hens, would be undermined by the new amendment, and, in turn, possibly prevent other states from following California’s lead.