The Save Our Bacon Act is excluded from the recently released draft of the Senate Farm Bill.
Supporters of the legislation argue that it protects livestock producers and consumers. But it has gained overwhelming opposition from animal welfare advocates, farmers, and policymakers. They fear that the Bill would threaten animal welfare laws, states’ rights, and the livelihoods of family farmers.
“The Save Our Bacon Act has no place in the Farm Bill, and we urge Congressional leaders to ensure this harmful language is kept out of the final bill,” says Nancy Perry, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ (ASPCA) Senior Vice President of Government Relations, in a statement.
Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman John Boozman stated that the provision will not be included due to its controversial nature. “The Save Our Bacon Act has been hemorrhaging support in the Senate,” states Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy. The Farm Bill requires bipartisan support to secure the 60 votes needed to pass.
“We will remain vigilant throughout the Farm Bill process and final vote to make sure that Congress respects the will of voters, the investments that humane-minded producers have already made, and the fundamental rights of states to establish commonsense standards for products sold within their borders,” says Sara Amundson, president of Humane World Action Fund.
The Bill is expected to be voted on in the coming weeks.
Articles like the one you just read are made possible through the generosity of Food Tank members. Can we please count on you to be part of our growing movement? Become a member today by clicking here.
Photo courtesy of Zoe Richardson, Unsplash
