Bill > HB1735

This bill prohibits the force-feeding of birds, which is defined as any method, manual or mechanical, that causes a bird to ingest more food than it would voluntarily consume, including feeding through a tube. This prohibition applies to all persons, including businesses, and makes it illegal to force-feed a bird or hire someone to do so, with an exception for force-feeding directed by a veterinarian for a bird's health. Furthermore, the bill makes it unlawful to knowingly sell, possess, transport, or distribute foie gras, which is the fatty liver of a bird specifically fed to enlarge it, or any product made using the practice of force-feeding. Violators can face civil penalties of up to $1,000 per violation and per day the violation continues, with collected funds going to the state general fund. The Department of Agriculture, through its director, is responsible for enforcing these provisions and can adopt necessary rules. This new law, which takes effect on January 1, 2028, adds a new chapter to Title 16 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), the state's compilation of laws.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1735&Year=2025&Initiative=false