Source: Chris Scott, MEATINGPLACE, 7/1/15


Legislators in California today will consider passing a bill that would ban the use of over-the-counter antibiotics in animals, part of a continuing effort by a state senator to ban the use of all antibiotics in all animals destined for consumer plates.

California State Sen. Jerry Hill says SB 27 corrects the current law that does not require any veterinary oversight or even a prescription to administer antibiotics of any sort to livestock. The proposed law requires prescriptions for antibiotics administered to livestock, limits antibiotics used to promote growth or improve feed efficiency and to track antibiotic use and patterns of antibiotic resistance in humans who consume the meat.

Although the proposed law would mean additional money and time for smaller farmers who would need a prescription from a vet who may not be nearby, Hill contends the bill could reduce antibiotic resistance among people. He also cites a U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimate that at least 23,000 people die each year from antibiotic-resistant infections.

The Agriculture Committee of the California State Senate is expected to consider the bill today, according to a local broadcast report. Passage by the full Senate and General Assembly would make the bill effective in January 2016.

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