The Humane Society of the United States and its allies launched a drive for a statewide referendum in the 2016 general election that would require that any animal raised or sold for consumption in Massachusetts be able to lie down, stand up, fully extend its limbs, and turn around freely, says Civil Eats. The language is nearly identical to California’s Proposition 2, which was approved by voters in 2008. “Its supporters say a vote affirming the proposition would effectively ban cages for chickens and crates for veal and pigs by 2022.” Proponents must deliver 65,000 signatures from Massachusetts voters to the state attorney general by early December to get on the ballot.
Farm and retail groups oppose the referendum, saying it will drive up food costs for consumers while reducing revenue for producers.