Upgrading Welfare Standards for Hens Used by the Egg Industry (Colorado)
Egg-Laying Hen Confinement Standards (HB20-1343)
The Egg-Laying Hen Confinement Standards (HB20-1343) bill upgrades welfare standards for hens used by the egg industry in Colorado, ending the intensive confinement of millions of birds in the state by January 1, 2023.
Hens used by the egg industry are some of the most abused animals in the United States. These birds spend their entire lives crammed into cages so small that they cannot turn around or extend their wings. The Egg-Laying Hen Confinement Standards (HB20-1343) bill upgrades welfare standards for hens used by the egg industry in Colorado, ending the intensive confinement of millions of birds in the state by January 1, 2023.
Sponsored by Representative Dylan Roberts (D-26) and Senator Kerry Donovan (D-5), the bill enjoyed bi-partisan support. The Animal Legal Defense Fund was part of the coalition of organizations supporting HB20-1343.
No federal laws govern how farmed animals are raised, leaving these animals vulnerable to horrific cruelty. To protect hens used by the egg industry, several states—California, Massachusetts, Michigan, Oregon, and Washington—have passed similar measures. Additionally, more than 200 food corporations are requiring their suppliers to switch to cage-free systems.
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