California Ruling on Prop 12 Highlights Need for Supreme Court Review

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on a Sacramento County Superior Court ruling to delay enforcement of Proposition 12 for pork retailers, including grocers.

“AFBF is pleased the Sacramento County Superior Court recognized that the state of California has rushed implementation of Proposition 12 without clear rules on how it will be enforced. California voters were told the law would improve animal welfare and food safety, but it fails to accomplish either of those goals.

“Today’s ruling is another example of inherent flaws in Proposition 12. Besides putting unfair pressure on retailers, it takes away farmers’ flexibility to ensure hogs are raised in a safe environment. Small farms across the country will be forced to make expensive and unnecessary changes to their operations, which will lead to more consolidation and higher food prices for all of America’s families. It’s imperative that the Supreme Court address the constitutionality of Proposition 12. The laws of one state should not set the rules for an entire nation.”

Read more on the National Pork Producers Council and AFBF Proposition 12 appeal to the Supreme Court.