Summary
This Kentucky law adds welfare standards to Kentucky’s existing farmed animal welfare code (Regulation 030: Beef Cattle, Bison, and Veal Specific Provisions is an addendum to Regulation 020: General Livestock and Poultry Provisions) specifically for cattle and bison raised for meat or veal. The law requires that calves being raised for veal be fed at least twice a day at regular intervals or be given unlimited access to food. Group pens are authorized and eventually required by the law (beginning on 31 DEC 2017), so long as calves are able to stand, rest, groom, eat, and separate from one another. The law concludes with a list of other authorized practices, including (but not limited to) castration, dehorning, artificial insemination, and ear notching. In brief, the bill is less about protections or securing welfare for the animals and more about outlining what will be tolerated by the law.