Ending the Intensive Confinement of Hens Used in the Egg Industry (Maryland)
S.B.806/H.B.834
This bill would require that eggs produced or sold in Maryland meet cage-free standards
Status
The Animal Legal Defense Fund supports this bill.
Sponsors: Del. Jennifer Terrasa (D-13), Sen. Benjamin Kramer (D-19)
Cosponsors: Jessica Feldmark (D-12A), Mary Lehman (D-21), Natalie Ziegler (D-9A), Elizabeth Embry (D-43A), Sheila Ruth (D-44B), Julie Palakovich Carr (D-17), Jheanelle Wilkins (D-20)
Introduction Date: January 10, 2024
Maryland lawmakers are considering a bill, S.B.806/H.B.834, to create a statewide ban on battery cages — tiny wire cages in which each hen is given a space smaller than the dimensions of a sheet of printer paper in which to spend nearly her entire life.
Hens used in the egg industry are among the most abused animals in the country, yet have few legal protections. In most states, hens can legally be intensively confined in battery cages that are so small they cannot extend their wings or lie down comfortably.
Battery cages have already been banned in multiple U.S. states and several countries around the world.
Why is this legislation important? This bill lays the groundwork to eventually establish Maryland as a “cage-free” state.
Coalition Support: Humane World for Animals
For more information about animal protection legislation in Maryland and opportunities to take action for animals, visit aldf.org/maryland.
Sign Up!
Join the Animal Legal Defense Fund's email list to stay up to date on lawsuits, legislation, and regulations affecting animals.