The proposed bill aims to enhance the welfare of egg-laying hens by prohibiting their confinement in spaces that restrict their ability to fully spread their wings. Specifically, it mandates that egg-laying hens must have access to a designated amount of usable floor space that aligns with the 2017 Guidelines for Cage-Free Egg Production established by the United Egg Producers. The bill introduces new definitions, including "egg-laying hen" and "poultry," and establishes a new section (352a) that outlines the unlawful confinement of these hens, while also detailing exceptions for medical research, temporary confinement for veterinary purposes, and humane slaughter.

Additionally, the bill amends existing enforcement provisions, allowing humane officers to enforce violations related to the confinement of egg-laying hens, with penalties for non-compliance. It specifies that violations of the new confinement standards may result in civil citations and outlines the penalties for aggravated cruelty to animals. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, providing a timeline for compliance with the new regulations.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 6-27, 13-351b, 13-353(a), 13-353