USA
Washington Wholesome Eggs and Egg Products Act
Summary Description
Prohibits confining egg-laying hens in cages and only allows cage-free housing systems. The law bans the use of cages in egg production and bans the sale of eggs from caged hens, whether sourced from Washington or not.
Species
Jurisdiction
USA
Sub-Jurisdiction
N/A
Type of Act
Legislation
Status
In force
Legal Value
Binding
Date Enacted
2019
Date Updated
June, 2023
Official Citation
RCW, Washington wholesome eggs and egg products act § 69.25. RCW 69.25.107
Commercial egg layer operations—Requirements.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- Applies the cage free American Humane Association (AHA) facility system plan (or an equivalent plan) in all commercial egg layer operations - which sets relatively high standards, putting an emphasis on animal welfare. This could set a good example for other states as well.
- Requires areas for nesting, scratching and perching.
- Applies extra-territorially by banning the sale of all eggs of egg-laying hens that have not been raised following equivalent standards set in the legislation.
- Bill (substitute House Bill 2049) language explicitly links animal welfare as the basis for the law, as well as human health and negative fiscal effects on the state associated with the lack of effective regulation of egg production and sales.
Weaknesses
- Applies only to egg-laying hens and does not cover other animals.
- Sets some exclusions, that still allow the confining of animals in tight places, for instance for testing, exhibitions and depopulation operations.
Related Laws/Policies
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