El Paso Congresswoman introduces legislation to ban extreme confinement of pregnant sows

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Congresswoman Veronica Escobar introduced the Pigs in Gestation Stalls Act of 2023 today. If passed, the bill would require pregnant sows have at least 24 square feet of space. That would allow them to lie down, stand up, and move around.

“Pigs are sentient beings that feel pain and suffering. They are sensitive, gentle, and smart creatures that are treated with incredible cruelty before they are sent to be slaughtered,” the congresswoman said.

In her legislation, Escobar argues that pigs are put under a lot of stress, which puts them at higher risk for disease. She says the PIGS Act will make it easier for consumers to feel confident about animal welfare standards when they buy pork products.

Escobar says that right now, each state has its own standards for pig welfare. This federal act would standardize their treatment and level the playing field for producers.