DeLauro Reacts to USDA Issuing Proposed Rule on Humane Handling of Veal Calves

WASHINGTON, DC—Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) released the following statement today on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)’s announcement of proposed changes to improve both humane handling and food safety inspections at facilities that produce veal meat. DeLauro, a former chair of the subcommittee responsible for funding USDA, has fought for these changes for over a decade.

“FSIS dragging their feet is nothing new. But taking six years to issue a proposed rule, after Congress increased funding for strengthened enforcement of the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act, is a waste of taxpayer dollars. There was plenty of evidence, including a Humane Society investigation, of inhumane treatment of animals and the violation of the downer cow policy that was supposed to prevent such animals from becoming part of our food chain.

“This issue seems to have fallen by the wayside. That is a disservice to American families who rely on the food industry to ensure their food is safe. I sincerely hope it does not take another six years before we see the final rule.”

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