The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has lauded the full implementation of California’s Proposition 12. This ballot measure, approved in 2018, enforces stringent restrictions on food products derived from animals kept in cruel confinement.

As per a press release from HSUS, the provisions related to eggs and veal stipulated by the measure have already been enforced. The pork-related provisions were activated last August, but retailers in the state had until December 31 to dispose of their remaining non-compliant pork products.

"We are thrilled that Proposition 12, the nation's strongest farm animal protection law, is finally fully implemented. No animal deserves to spend her life in a cage where she's virtually immobilized," said Kitty Block, president and CEO of HSUS.

The press release further stated that HSUS was instrumental in promoting Proposition 12, also known as the Farm Animal Confinement Initiative. The measure received support from two-thirds of California voters. It prohibits the production and sale within the state of products derived from mother pigs, egg-laying chickens and calves used for veal that are subjected to extreme confinement conditions. This includes gestation crates—small metal cages that prevent mother pigs from turning around.

HSUS stated in its press release: "Locking farm animals in tiny cages is not only inhumane and cruel; it increases the risk of food safety threats like salmonella and E. coli while also increasing the risk of another pandemic."

According to information on the California Department of Food and Agriculture website, January 1, 2024 was set as the deadline for producers to obtain a valid Certificate of Compliance. Additionally, all sold covered products must be sourced from producers with valid Certificates of Compliance. Distributors are also required to hold a valid Certificate of Compliance for new registrations and registration renewals.