News

Calif. governor signs cage-free egg legislation into law

July 8, 2010

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed into law this week legislation that phases out the production of eggs from caged hens. The bill, A.B. 1437, requires that all whole eggs sold in California as of Jan. 1, 2015, come from hens able to stand up, fully extend their limbs, lie down and spread their wings without touching each other or the sides of their enclosure, thus requiring cage-free conditions for the birds.

A handful of quick-service brands have previously announced they are phasing "cage-free" eggs, including two announced this year: Sonic and Subway.

The Humane Society of the United States is declaring the new law a modest but important food safety and animal welfare standard.

"By signing this bill, Governor Schwarzenegger has taken an important step in protecting animal welfare in a way that will also improve food safety for consumers across California," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The HSUS.