New York University (NYU) Food Impact Program
The “Save Our Bacon” Act is proposed Congressional legislation that could substantially limit state and local authority to regulate the sale of animal products based on production methods. If enacted, it could undermine existing farmed animal welfare laws across the U.S., including California’s and Massachusetts’ restrictions on pork and veal from crated pigs and calves, and constrain future protections. Josh Balk will discuss the Act’s background, legal and political significance, and current status, including its inclusion in the House Farm Bill and ongoing consideration in the Senate. The talk will also consider broader implications for federalism, food policy, animal welfare, public health, and the environment.
Presenters
Josh Balk is the CEO of The Accountability Board, an organization that utilizes shareholder engagement to advance animal welfare with the world’s largest corporations. At the Humane Society of the United States, he led the passage of a dozen state laws banning cages for egg-laying hens, mother pigs, and veal calves, including the historic California Prop 12 — the strongest farm animal law in the world. He co-founded EAT Just, the maker of Just Egg. He also worked at Animal Outlook, where he conducted undercover investigations at chicken slaughterhouses and factory farms. Balk is now leading the campaign to stop SOB from becoming law.
