NJ Governor Bows to Pressure from Iowa Pork Industry; Proves He’s Completely Out of Touch on Animal Welfare
News
Thursday, December 04, 2014 02:59 PM

The bill had the support of 93 percent of New Jersey voters, the New Jersey Veterinary Medical Association, New Jersey members of the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association, and the state’s largest newspapers and animal welfare organizations. It was overwhelmingly approved along bipartisan lines in the state Senate 32-1 and in the Assembly 53-13.

Dr. Barry Kellogg, HSVMA senior veterinary advisor, said: “With his rejection of a gestation crate ban, Gov. Christie has proved himself completely out of touch on animal welfare among his New Jersey constituency and nationwide. The move to end the extreme confinement of farm animals not only reflects the latest science but also the sentiments of the majority of the public who are demanding these changes as conscientious consumers. This veto is a shameful response to political calculations rather than a commendable response to constituent concerns.”

Nine other states, Canada, the European Union, Australia, India and Brazil are moving away from gestation crates due to animal welfare concerns. Some of America’s biggest pork producers, like Smithfield and Cargill, are also ending gestation crate use in their supply chains. Leading food companies like McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Safeway, Burger King and more than 60 others are also eliminating these crates from their supply chains.


Media Contact: Cheylin Parker, 240-599-6848, [email protected]