Vote no on Proposition 2

Proposition 2 on the November ballot is designed to make life better for farm animals in California by mandating new standards for humane treatment of animals.

But the measure falls into the category of a cure worse that may prove worse than the ailment.

If passed, Proposition 2 could have a negative impact on one of California’s greatest and most important industries. Further, consumers already have the power in their hands to change the industry, and are gradually doing so.

Proposition 2 would require farmers to change the way animals such as egg-laying hens and calves used for veal are housed. The law, which would take hold in 2015, would require ranchers to allow animals to lie down, stand up, fully extend their limbs and turn around freely.

It would penalize farmers and ranchers who fail to meet the standards with fines of up to $1,000 per day and jail time.

Farmers and ranchers in California raise more than 40 million animals for commercial purposes, according to the state Legislative Analyst’s Office. If California imposes higher standards for treatment of farm animals than those in neighboring states and agricultural areas, the industry will simply shift to those areas. That doesn’t benefit Californians or animals.

Plus, state law already bars cruelty to animals and requires ranchers to provide animals with an exercise area and access to adequate food, water and shelter.

Finally, many ranchers are altering their practices to allow animals more room to move because increasing numbers of consumers are willing to pay a higher price to support these practices.

Californians can support these practices without imposing potentially harmful new regulations on the farm industry.

We urge a no vote on Proposition 2.

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