Biden Administration Scraps Cruel USDA Slaughter Line Rule
This week the Biden administration has withdrawn a proposed United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) rule that would’ve allowed slaughterhouses to permanently increase chicken slaughter line speeds, and is reviewing another rule that would’ve allowed for faster pig slaughter lines.
A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION: Slaughterhouses already operate at an ultra-fast pace, which puts animals at increased risk of prolonged and painful deaths, while also endangering workers and putting public health in jeopardy through disease contamination. Scrapping proposed Trump-era rules that would have allowed for even faster speeds is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done and we’re working to help.
WHAT’S NEXT?: Dozens of chicken slaughterhouses are already operating at increased speeds due to special waivers that have been granted by the USDA. Our next goal is to pressure the new administration to revoke those waivers and continue to monitor the situation.
“Animal Equality has been working hard behind the scenes to stop this awful proposal from taking effect. Last month, we made a presentation to several federal agencies explaining how increasing slaughter line speeds will exacerbate animal welfare and worker safety problems which are already far too prevalent in the industry. We are thrilled that the Biden Administration has chosen to withdraw this proposed rule from consideration. We know the poultry industry will nevertheless keep pushing for increased slaughter speeds, so we will remain vigilant and keep fighting back against their efforts.”
Sarah Hanneken, Legal Advocacy Counsel
WHAT YOU CAN DO: Even while operating at the “standard” line speeds, slaughterhouses are horrific places for animals, who have the same capacity to feel pain and fear as the dogs and cats we share our homes with. The best way to help animals is by simply not eating them, and encouraging your friends and family to do the same. Going plant-based, or even just reducing your consumption of animal-derived products, makes a big difference and is now easier than ever.
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