California 2017-2018 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB3021

Introduced
2/16/18  
Introduced
2/16/18  
Refer
3/12/18  
Refer
3/12/18  
Report Pass
4/12/18  
Report Pass
4/12/18  
Refer
4/12/18  
Refer
4/12/18  
Refer
4/25/18  
Report Pass
5/25/18  
Report Pass
5/25/18  
Engrossed
5/30/18  
Engrossed
5/30/18  
Refer
5/31/18  
Refer
6/13/18  
Refer
6/13/18  
Report Pass
6/19/18  
Report Pass
6/19/18  
Refer
6/19/18  
Refer
6/19/18  
Refer
6/20/18  
Refer
7/2/18  

Caption

Farm animals: egg-laying hens: confinement.

Impact

The implementation of AB3021 will have significant implications for farm operations in California. It directly impacts how egg production facilities manage their livestock, encouraging practices that adhere to humane treatment of animals and promoting cage-free housing systems. The change could lead to increased costs for producers, who will need to adjust their infrastructures to comply with the new regulations. Additionally, it will prohibit the sale of eggs from non-compliant enclosures, which could affect both local suppliers and consumers reliant on these products.

Summary

AB3021 focuses on the confinement of egg-laying hens within California, building on existing animal welfare laws established by Proposition 2 in 2008. The bill aims to enhance the standards of care for these animals by prohibiting their confinement in enclosures that do not meet specified conditions. Beginning January 1, 2020, the bill sets a minimum requirement of 144 square inches of usable floor space per egg-laying hen, and starting January 1, 2024, it mandates that such hens must be housed in cage-free systems as defined by established guidelines.

Sentiment

The sentiment around AB3021 appears to lean heavily towards animal welfare advocacy. Proponents support the bill for its focus on humane treatment of animals and improvement of living conditions for egg-laying hens. However, there are concerns from some agricultural stakeholders regarding the potential financial burden on farmers and the feasibility of widespread compliance. Despite apprehensions, the overall sentiment reflects a growing trend towards prioritizing welfare standards in food production.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the feasibility of transitioning existing poultry operations to meet the new standards by the specified deadlines. Some advocates argue that the timeline may be too ambitious or expensive for smaller farms, which could lead to decreased availability of local eggs. Critics also highlight that while the bill aims to enhance animal welfare, it could inadvertently lead to higher egg prices, affecting consumers. Discussions among stakeholders aim to balance animal welfare concerns with economic realities facing California's agricultural industry.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

CA AB280

Segregated confinement.

CA SB733

Solitary confinement.

CA AB2786

Certified mobile farmers’ markets.

CA AB2425

Bowie’s Law: animals: adoption, shelter overcrowding, and breeding.

CA AB2265

Animals: euthanasia.

CA AB1232

Department of Food and Agriculture: resilient and higher welfare grant program.

CA AB408

Climate-resilient Farms, Sustainable Healthy Food Access, and Farmworker Protection Bond Act of 2024.

CA AB660

Food and beverage products: labeling: quality dates, safety dates, and sell-by dates.

CA AB2964

Crimes: animal cruelty.

CA SB1143

Paint products: stewardship program.

Similar Bills

HI HB1293

Relating To Farm Animals.

HI HB1293

Relating To Farm Animals.

IL SB3655

CAGED EGG BAN

HI HB1868

Relating To Egg-laying Hens.

HI SB2977

Relating To Egg-laying Hens.

HI HB538

Relating To Farm Animals.

HI SB346

Relating To Farm Animals.

CA AB2866

Cannabis regulation.