The bill amends the Animal Industry Act to establish new standards for the treatment of certain farm animals, specifically egg-laying hens and gestating sows. It defines key terms such as "cage-free housing system," "covered animal," and "usable floor space," and prohibits farm owners or operators from confining these animals in ways that prevent them from lying down, standing up, or fully extending their limbs. Additionally, it mandates that egg-laying hens must be housed in cage-free systems that provide adequate space and enrichments for natural behaviors. The bill also outlines exceptions to these requirements for specific circumstances, such as veterinary care and scientific research.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits the sale of shell eggs from hens that have been confined in violation of these new standards, with a provision that allows for a defense if a business owner relied on a written certification from the supplier. The enforcement of these regulations can be pursued through civil action by the department or the attorney general, and the bill clarifies that it does not replace existing animal welfare laws. Notably, the implementation of these provisions is delayed until January 1, 2029, for egg-laying hens and until April 1, 2020, for gestating sows.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 287.746