In 2021, Nevada Democrats pushed through Assembly Bill 399 (AB399), a law that forced egg producers to go cage-free by the end of 2024.
Governor Steve Sisolak, a Democrat, signed it into law, making Nevada the ninth state to ban the sale of eggs from caged hens. Now, Nevadans are left to deal with the consequences — higher prices and fewer choices at the grocery store.
The bill, introduced by Assemblyman Howard Watts (D-Las Vegas), is packed with government mandates that dictate how egg farmers should run their businesses.
“While promoting cage-free eggs comes from a good place – concern for animal welfare – the unintended effect of driving up egg prices have hit people in the pocketbook,” said Assemblywoman Danielle Gallant (R-Clark). “It’s easy to see how Assemblyman Watts, who has plenty of disposal income, might not fully grasp the financial strain on regular folks.”
The law bans traditional caged egg production, requiring all eggs sold in Nevada to come from cage-free facilities, no matter where they’re produced.
Farmers with more than 3,000 hens must provide at least one square foot of space per bird and include costly enrichments like perches, dust-bathing areas, and nests.
In simple terms, the government is telling farmers how to farm and consumers how to shop. And guess who pays for it?
You do.
What It Means for You
Starting January 1, 2024, every egg on Nevada store shelves were required to be cage-free, whether it was laid in Nevada or shipped from somewhere else.
That means out-of-state farmers must follow Nevada’s rules if they want to sell here. This overreach is a classic example of big-government Democrats meddling in the free market.
Egg prices are already climbing, and experts warn they will get even worse.
“Those of us who voted no to requiring the sale of eggs from cage-free chickens in Nevada knew this would eventually be the result, ” noted Assemblywoman Jill Dickman (R-Washoe). “In the name of ‘humane’ treatment of chickens we’ve made it more expensive for humans to eat. Pretty soon lobster just might be cheaper protein than eggs or chicken!”
Studies from other states with similar laws show cage-free eggs cost about 30% more than traditional eggs. That’s a big hit to Nevada families, especially those already struggling with inflation.
“We just want to provide affordable eggs to our customers,” said one local egg producer who asked to remain anonymous. “This law makes it harder for us to compete and for Nevadans to afford basic groceries.”
Democrats’ War on Small Businesses
Big egg producers with deep pockets might survive these changes, but small family farms could be put out of business.
Unlike large corporate farms, small farms can’t afford the costly upgrades required under AB399. It’s another example of Democrats favoring big business while claiming to stand up for the little guy.
“These politicians don’t understand the challenges farmers face,” said a local rancher. “They’re making decisions in their cushy offices without thinking about what it means for the folks who actually produce the food.”
What Critics Say
Supporters of the bill, including the Humane Society of the United States, argue that cage-free eggs are more humane and meet consumer demand for better animal welfare.
They claim the law brings Nevada in line with modern farming standards. But let’s be honest…
If consumers wanted cage-free eggs, they would buy them without the government forcing the issue. Instead of letting the free market work, Democrats have decided they know better than you do.
What Can Be Done?
Some conservative lawmakers are pushing back, arguing for exemptions for small producers and questioning whether the government should be involved in such decisions at all.
“This is government overreach at its worst,” said a Republican legislator. “Let the consumers decide what they want to buy. The government shouldn’t be in the business of picking winners and losers.”
“Will this be revisited this session?” Dickman wondered. “Like everything else, it’s up to the Democrats in control who voted for this insanity.”
The Bottom Line
AB399 is another example of Democrats pushing their agenda on hardworking Nevadans. It takes away choice, drives up costs, and puts small farms at risk.
If you don’t like paying more for eggs and having fewer options, it might be time to send a message to Carson City.
Stay informed, stay engaged, and remember — government is best when it governs least.
This article was written with the assistance of AI. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
