Some hog farmers plan to expand their operations with Proposition 12 in effect, said California agriculture officials in the “Planting Seeds” blog as the voter-approved law took effect over the weekend.
“Additionally, we believe there is sufficient product already in the supply chain to carry through for a number of months.”
In a blog, the California State Department of Food and Agriculture stated that at least two additional steps must be taken before Prop 12 regulations can become final. The CDFA is currently reviewing public feedback on the proposed rules.
“As we head into 2022, we have had many discussions with pork producers who are planning not only to be compliant, but to expand their operations,” said the blog. Prop 12 requires that farmers provide at least 24 feet of space for breeding pigs.
Opponents say Prop 12 is unduly onerous and could result in a meat shortage because it bars the sale of pork produced in other states if they do not match California’s standards.
Two farm groups could challenge Prop 12 and the Supreme Court could make a decision this week.
Source: Successful Farming