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SB 403

AN ACT RELATING TO FOOD AND DRUGS -- FORCE-FED POULTRY PRODUCTS

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Sam Bell and 6 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill bans production and sale of foie gras and force-fed poultry products based on animal welfare grounds, aligning with California's existing restrictions.

03/19/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · SB 403

Legislative bill overview

SB 403 would prohibit the production, sale, and distribution of foie gras and other products derived from force-feeding poultry within Rhode Island. The bill aims to ban these practices based on animal welfare concerns, aligning with similar legislation adopted in California and other jurisdictions.

Why is this important

Foie gras production involves force-feeding ducks or geese through a process called gavage, which animal welfare advocates argue causes unnecessary suffering. This bill reflects growing consumer and legislative attention to farm animal welfare standards and represents Rhode Island potentially joining a small number of states with such restrictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic and trade impacts: Bans may conflict with interstate commerce protections and could face legal challenges; retailers and restaurants sourcing foie gras would need alternative suppliers or face compliance costs
  • Agricultural industry opposition: Producers and importers argue the practice, while controversial, is legal in most U.S. jurisdictions and that such bans create competitive disadvantages without addressing broader farming practices
  • Definitional and enforcement concerns: The bill's scope regarding which poultry products qualify and how to enforce sales bans across state lines may prove administratively complex

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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