Prohibits force-feeding to create a force-fed poultry product or the hiring of another to engage in force-feeding of a poultry product. Violations would be subject to a civil penalty of $500 per violation.
Impact
If enacted, S0403 would introduce significant changes to existing food safety regulations in the state. By categorically banning the sale of force-fed poultry products, including those containing such ingredients, the bill will impact both producers and consumers within Rhode Island. The law positions itself within a growing movement toward animal welfare reform, reflecting public concerns over the ethical implications of certain food production methods and the associated health risks from such practices, especially zoonotic diseases.
Summary
Bill S0403, titled 'An Act Relating to Food and Drugs – Force-Fed Poultry Products,' aims to regulate the production and sale of force-fed poultry products, specifically targeting the controversial practice of force-feeding ducks and geese to produce foie gras. Introduced by Senators Gu and others, the bill intends to safeguard public health and welfare by banning such practices deemed inhumane and environmentally unsustainable. The legislation explicitly prohibits any individual from engaging in or hiring another to carry out force-feeding and mandates the prohibition of sales of any force-fed poultry products within Rhode Island.
Contention
Notably, the bill is likely to ignite debates around animal rights and the culinary traditions associated with foie gras. Proponents argue that outlawing force-feeding not only promotes ethical treatment of animals but also aligns with broader public health interests. However, critics may contend that such regulations infringe on culinary freedom and could harm local businesses that rely on this traditional product. The bill's implications for market availability and the broader food industry dynamics in Rhode Island present a contentious area of discussion among lawmakers and stakeholders alike.
Prohibits force-feeding to create a force-fed poultry product nor hire another to engage in force feeding of a poultry product. Violations would be subject to a civil penalty of $500.
Prohibits force-feeding to create a force-fed poultry product nor hire another to engage in force feeding of a poultry product. Violations would be subject to a civil penalty of $500.
Prohibits the sale/offer of sale/trade/distribution of fur products. Makes 3 violations of this chapter civil infractions punishable by civil penalty and the 4th violation a misdemeanor punishable by fine up to $500 or imprisonment for 30 days or both.
Increases the penalty for violations of the care of dogs statute to a minimum fine of one hundred dollars ($100) and a maximum fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000) per violation.
Increases the penalty for violations of the care of dogs statute to a minimum fine of one hundred dollars ($100) and a maximum fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000) per violation.
Prohibits the charging of any fees to a senior citizen who is 65 years of age or older for a hard-copy paper bill, invoice or statement. The violation of this provision would be a deceptive trade practice subject to a $500 fine.
Prohibits the charging of any fees to a senior citizen who is 65 years of age or older for a hard-copy paper bill, invoice or statement. The violation of this provision would be a deceptive trade practice subject to a $500 fine.