The hard part about animal welfare issues is that they’re complex in nature, and the answers or solutions are rarely black and white.

There’s an upcoming referendum in California known as Proposition 2 – or the Standards for Confining Farm Animals ballot initiative – that’s scheduled for vote in that state on November 4. The proposition deals with animals that are raised for food – like chickens and pigs and cattle -- and it would make some changes in the way they are housed so that they would be able to display what’s called “normal behaviors.”

The problem with Prop 2 – as it’s come to be known – is that food animal veterinarians and animal welfare scientists were never asked for their input on the new regulation. As a consequence, it appears that this well-meaning proposal could have some very negative consequences that will directly impact the very animals it seeks to help.

There’s a lot of discussion about Proposition 2 in the food community these days, and we’re getting some questions about what our position is on the issue. The AVMA is the oldest, largest and most respected veterinary association in the United States, and people want to know where we stand.

As California voters consider Proposition 2, the AVMA believes it is essential that they be given the opportunity to make informed decisions. That includes being provided all the pertinent information required to make an educated choice.

We are enthusiastic supporters of all efforts to improve animal welfare for all livestock, farm animals, wildlife and pets, but, as you will see in the full statement of the AVMA on Proposition 2, we believe this ballot initiative may create different welfare problems at the same time it seeks to solve others.

For more information about California Proposition 2, make sure you read our full statement. Also, check back on this site and on the AVMA homesite for occasional updates.

As with all votes and elections, it’s important to consider all angles and possible consequences before making a decision.