Ban on Confining Pigs in Small Stalls: Improved Animal Welfare
This new law aims to improve the living conditions of breeding pigs by prohibiting their confinement in overly small spaces. Citizens can expect pork from such farms to be gradually phased out of sale, reflecting growing public expectations for animal welfare. The act also provides financial assistance to producers to help them comply with the new requirements.
Key points
Starting December 31, 2025, breeding pigs cannot be confined in stalls that prevent them from turning around freely or lying down.
Each breeding pig must have at least 24 square feet of usable floorspace.
Exceptions to the ban include transportation, veterinary procedures, or the five-day period before farrowing.
Financial assistance will be provided to pig producers to help them comply, with priority given to independent producers.
State and local animal welfare laws that are identical to or more stringent than this act remain in effect.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_2626
Sponsor: Rep. Escobar, Veronica [D-TX-16]
Process start date: 2025-04-03