Trump Administration Sues California Over Egg Laws

The Trump administration has filed a federal lawsuit against California, challenging the state's animal welfare laws—including AB 1437, Proposition 2, and Proposition 12—on the grounds that they drive up egg prices nationwide and violate the 1970 Egg Products Inspection Act. The Justice Department argues that these laws impose costly and unnecessary regulations on egg producers, restricting traditional production methods. California officials, including Governor Gavin Newsom, have dismissed the lawsuit as political blame-shifting and emphasized the state's commitment to animal welfare. Legal experts highlight that other factors, such as the avian flu outbreak, have impacted egg price fluctuations. Proposition 12 was recently upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court, and egg prices have dropped sharply after peaking earlier in the year. The case may set significant precedents for states’ rights to regulate food standards and influence national food prices.