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HB 1735

Prohibiting the force-feeding of birds.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by April Berg and 17 co-sponsors

Washington bill HB 1735 bans force-feeding birds and prohibits selling products from force-fed birds to protect animal welfare and restrict foie gras production.

Executive session scheduled, but no action was taken in the House Committee on Agriculture & Natural Resources at 10:30 AM.
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Bill Summary · HB 1735

Legislative bill overview

HB 1735 would prohibit the force-feeding of birds in Washington state, specifically targeting practices like gavage feeding used in foie gras production. The bill aims to ban both the practice itself and the sale of products derived from force-fed birds within the state.

Why is this important

Force-feeding birds raises animal welfare concerns, as the practice can cause injury and distress to animals. This legislation reflects growing consumer and legislative interest in restricting production methods deemed inhumane, similar to bans already enacted in California, New York, and several other states.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on specialty food producers: Washington's culinary industry and any existing foie gras producers would face compliance costs or business disruption, though the market impact is likely limited given foie gras's niche status
  • Definitional clarity: The bill may need precise language defining what constitutes "force-feeding" to avoid unintended consequences for poultry farming practices (tube-feeding sick animals, for example)
  • Interstate commerce complications: Enforcement challenges arise when consumers can purchase force-fed bird products across state lines online or in neighboring states

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

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