Bill > S0403

This bill prohibits force-feeding poultry, specifically targeting the production of foie gras, by making it illegal to force-feed birds like ducks or geese to enlarge their liver, or to hire someone to do so. The legislation defines force-feeding as compelling food or supplements into an animal's throat, esophagus, crop, or stomach, and a force-fed poultry product as any resulting food item. The bill makes it unlawful to sell force-fed poultry products in Rhode Island through any means, including online or direct sales, with a rebuttable presumption that any item labeled "foie gras" is a force-fed product. Violations will be subject to a civil penalty of $500 per offense, with each day of continuous violation potentially considered a separate offense. Enforcement can be conducted by local municipalities or the state health department, who may retain recovered fines after deducting trial costs. The bill cites public health, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability as reasons for the regulation, and is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, providing businesses time to adapt to the new requirements.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://status.rilegislature.gov/