The CRA opposes Proposition 2 on November ballot
The CRA recently voted to oppose Proposition 2 on the November 2008 ballot. Proposition 2, sponsored by the Humane Society, requires that chickens, pigs and cows raised for veal on farms in California not be caged in a manner that restricts their movements.
The largest impact of the proposition would fall on California’s sizeable egg farming industry, which would be required to undo modern egg farming practices of caging the birds to allow them to roam free. Modern egg farming practices were designed to promote food safety by reducing the significant risk of salmonella contamination of eggs, ensuring egg and bird feces contact is reduced or eliminated. A free-roaming system would heighten the risk of salmonella contamination of California-grown eggs.
The CRA commends Proposition 2’s intention to provide for the humane treatment of farm animals (as is current law) however this proposition neglects to account for a comprehensive and balanced approach that considers other impacts, such as food safety.
