Source: Chris Scott, MEATINGPLACE, 5/31/17



The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected attempts by attorneys general from six states to challenge California’s egg sales law.
The nation’s highest court denied the petition filed by state officials from Alabama, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma about six months after a three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court ruling rejecting the claims. Both of those courts ruled that the states failed to demonstrate how the law would affect specific state citizens and not just egg farmers.

California set space requirements covering egg-laying hens as they were being raised and gave farmers until 2015 to comply with the 2008 initiative. The measure also required similar housing systems that allow free movement for any suppliers who sell eggs within California, even if they are out of state. The mandate also covered breeding sows and veal calves to allow them to stand up, turn around freely and extend their limbs as they are raised.

The Supreme Court ruling was applauded by animal rights groups, including the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).
“We commend today’s decision, which sends a clear message that other states have no business trying to drag down California’s high ethical standards in preventing cruelty and reducing food safety risks,” Wayne Pacelle, HSUS president and CEO, said in a statement.

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