LEGISLATION

Farmed Animals and the Law

Farmed animals are the most unprotected animals in New York State. Their welfare is in the hands of the Department of Agriculture and Markets—the same department that oversees frozen peas. There are no laws that even require shelter for farmed animals in New York despite the harsh winters. Federally, only a handful of laws protect animals, including the Animal Welfare Act (1966) and the Endangered Species Act (1973). However, these largely apply to wild and companion animals. The only U.S. law that protects farmed animals is the Humane Slaughter Act (1958), which only applies during the slaughter process, does not extend to chickens, and is grossly inadequate in protecting animals from pain and distress. This education page provides more information on the current absence of agriculture regulations and protections for farmed animals.

Referenced Sources

• Farmed Animals and the Law | Animal Legal Defense Fund

• What Does “Free-Range” Mean for the Animals? | Sentient Media

• Factory Farming | Farm Sanctuary
  

Further Reading

• Little Red Barns by Will Potter

• Animal Rights by Mark Rowlands