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 passed, H6345 would amend Title 21 of the General Laws related to Food and Drugs. It would define key terms associated with force-feeding and formally prohibit related activities. Violators of this law would face a civil penalty of $500 per offense, a deterrent intended to discourage practices deemed inhumane. The bill's implementation could promote a shift in consumer preferences and push the food industry toward more humane practices.
Summary
House Bill H6345 addresses the regulation of force-fed poultry products, specifically targeting the process of force-feeding birds, such as ducks and geese, to produce items like foie gras. The bill aims to prohibit both the act of force-feeding and the sale of products resulting from this practice. Its introduction reflects growing concerns regarding the ethical implications of animal treatment in the food industry, emphasizing the welfare of animals and public health.
Contention
Debate around the bill is likely to center on the balance between animal welfare and culinary traditions that include products like foie gras. Opponents may argue that prohibiting force-feeding affects cultural practices and potentially the livelihoods of those involved in these traditional farming methods. Proponents, however, will likely emphasize public health benefits and ethical concerns surrounding animal treatment in food production. The bill's passage could set a precedent for similar regulations in other states, reflecting a broader movement towards more humane food production standards.
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.