The proposed law would require the Commissioner of the Department of Food and Agriculture to issue regulations to ensure that farm animals are maintained in good health and that cruel or inhumane practices are not used in the raising, handling or transportation of farm animals.

The Commissioner would issue regulations, effective within four years after passage of the proposed law, about the surgical procedures used on farm animals, the transportation and slaughter of farm animals, and the diet and housing of those animals. The Director of the Division of Animal Health could issue exemption permits for a period of time up to one year and one half to any farmer.

Under the proposed measure, an unpaid Scientific Advisory Board on Farm Animal Welfare comprised of veterinarians and animal scientists would also be established within the Department of Food and Agriculture. The Board would examine animal agricultural practices, issue for publication certain reports on farm practices, and make non-binding recommendations to the Commissioner about specific regulations. If appropriated by the legislature, the Board may allocate an annual sum of not more than ten cents per Massachusetts citizen to assist farmers in adopting methods which are consistent with the purposes of this law.

The Director of the Division of Animal Health would be responsible for enforcing regulations issued as a result of this proposed law. Persons who violate the new law would be punished by a fine of up to $1,000,