The proposed bill introduces a new chapter, CHAPTER 13.1, to Title 21 of the General Laws, titled "FORCE-FED POULTRY PRODUCTS." The legislation aims to protect public health and general welfare in Rhode Island by regulating the practice of force-feeding birds, particularly in the production of foie gras. It defines key terms such as "force-fed poultry product," which refers to any product resulting from the force-feeding of a bird to fatten or enlarge its liver; "force-feeding," which is the act of forcing food or supplements into an animal's throat, esophagus, crop, or stomach; and "sell," which encompasses any act of selling, trading, or bartering for consideration.

The bill prohibits individuals from engaging in force-feeding or hiring others to do so for the creation of force-fed poultry products. It also prohibits the sale of any force-fed poultry product or food containing such products within the state. A rebuttable presumption is established that any item identified or labeled as "foie gras" is considered a force-fed poultry product unless proven otherwise.

Violations of this chapter will incur a civil penalty of five hundred dollars ($500) for each offense, with each day of continued violation treated as a separate offense. Enforcement can be carried out by local municipalities or the state department of health, and peace officers are authorized to issue citations for violations. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.