Compliance with the Massachusetts Question #3 ballot-enacted welfare law was the subject of discussion at the recent UEP regional briefing. Effective January 1st, 2022, hens in Massachusetts and eggs supplied from other states must be derived from flocks housed at an allowance of 1.5 square foot of floor area. 

The Legislature of Massachusetts has been urged to modify the requirement to 1.0 square foot per hen to conform to other states, facilitating supply to the Bay State.  Failure to do so will result in shortages and a profound increase in price accompanied by ‘bootleg’ transfer from adjoining states.  On June 24th, the Massachusetts Senate exercising an override provision in the State constitution downgraded the requirement of 1.5 square foot to conform to the UEP standard adopted by other states. Implementation will depend on concurrence by the Massachusetts House.