SUPREME COURT SIDES WITH CALIFORNIA AND UPHOLDS PROPOSITION 12!

Prop 12 ballot photo 

In 2018, California voters passed Prop 12 which banned the sale of pork products inside California, even when produced outside the state of California if the sellers did not comply with California husbandry standards and if those outside sellers knew or should have known that the meat came from a breeding pig that was confined in a cruel manner. This was, of course challenged by The National Pork Producers Council and the American Farm Bureau Federation. The Supreme Court agreed with california.

California voters were determined to lead the way for the nation to improve conditions for all animals regardless of their classification of wild or domestic, or their alleged purpose i.e. food, pet or entertainment. In fact, in 2022 Californians enacted Senate Bill 1029, a law that recognizes the premise that human, animal and environmental health are all interdependent and connected. In other words, keeping animals, humans and the environment healthy is necessary to keep each and all of us healthy. SB 1029 requires the creation of a one health program that establishes interagency and interdisciplinary coordination to ultimately do just that.

Although the Supreme Court was more focused on interstate commerce, preemption and other constitutional issues, it unknowingly gave another nod to Californians who understand that if we are humane to animals and keep them healthy, they will do the same for us.

There are still miles to go until we are there. But we will
get there one roadblock at a time.