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BRYANT HUMANE TREATMENT OF CALVES FOR VEAL APPROVED BY SENATE

Released on: January 23, 2003

TRENTON - A bill sponsored by Senator Wayne R. Bryant which would require the humane treatment of calves raised for the production of veal was approved by the Senate today by a vote of 22-4.

"These calves are raised in conditions that are atrocious," said Senator Bryant, D-Camden and Gloucester. "They are kept in boxes that are two feet wide, unable to move. They are forced into being anemic because they are fed an all-liquid milk substitute diet deficient in iron and fiber. As a result of their living conditions, many of these animals have to live their entire lives, heavily medicated, to cope with chronic stress and a multitude of other diseases. We cannot allow such cruelty to continue."

The bill, S-1478, would require that calves used in the production of veal be treated humanely. Calves would be raised unchained and untethered in an enclosure of sufficient size to move around, and they would be fed a diet that prevents anemia or impairment of the digestive tract. Anyone found in violation of the provisions of this bill would be subject to a fine of up to $1,000 and a prison term of six months.

"It is unbelievable that in an civilized world, we would allow calves raised for the production of veal to be treated so horrendously," said Senator Bryant. "We must act with humanity and compassion. We must treat these calves better."

An identical bill, A-1948, awaits consideration by the full Assembly.