Initiative would restrict confinement of chickens, pigs, calves
US - Animal welfare groups are hoping to change livestock production practices by collecting enough signatures to put an initiative on the ballot asking state voters to give the hens more room to roam.
3 October 2007
2 minute read
The measure would force farmers to change current practices that keep most egg-laying hens, veal calves and pregnant pigs in small cages or boxes for most of their lives. It would require that enclosures be big enough for the animals to fully extend their wings or legs, lie down, stand up and turn around.
Farmers say the animals are already well treated, and less efficient methods would drive up the cost of eggs and other foods up by anywhere from a quarter to three times as much.
