The Trump administration has filed a lawsuit against California, alleging that three state laws are the reason behind rising egg prices in the Golden State.
“The State of California has contributed to the historic rise in egg prices by imposing unnecessary red tape on the production of eggs. Through a combination of voter initiatives, legislative enactments, and regulations, California has effectively prevented farmers across the country from using a number of agricultural production methods which were in widespread use—and which helped keep eggs affordable,” the lawsuit said.
The suit targets three state laws, AB 1437, Proposition 2, and Proposition 12.
Prop 2, a statewide ballot measure voters passed in 2008, created welfare mandates for farm animals such as egg-laying hens, and AB 1437 regulates egg quality for human consumption. The administration argues that the laws work in tandem to depress egg production and drive up prices.
The suit also calls out Prop. 12, passed by voters in 2018, which requires specific minimum-space requirements for chickens and other farm animals.
The administration also argues that regulating egg production falls under the federal government’s domain, citing a 1970 federal law.
There was no mention of the bird flu. An outbreak of the disease earlier this year hiked prices up nationwide.
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s press office poked fun at the suit with a post on X, claiming President Donald Trump is “back to his favorite hobby: blaming California for literally everything.”
“Next up: @CAGovernor Gavin Newsom caused the fall of Rome and sent the asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs,” the post continued.