The Humane Farming Association is intensifying its opposition to the Egg Products Inspection Act Amendments of 2012. The measure – introduced by Oregon 5th District Representative Kurt Schrader – would codify a controversial agreement between the United Egg Producers and the Humane Society of the United States. According to the Humane Farming Association – the egg industry is seeking to establish egg factory cages as a national standard that could never be challenged or changed by state law or public vote. They say the bill would preempt state laws – such as California’s Proposition 2 – and is a direct assault upon egg laying hens, voters and states’ rights.
Groups like the National Pork Producers Council and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association also oppose the bill – but for different reasons. Both groups warn the bill could set a dangerous precedent of allowing the federal government to dictate how livestock producers operate.
Source: NAFB News service