Massachusetts Activists: Question Would Protect Farm Animals from Cruelty

Animal advocates converged on the Statehouse Wednesday to launch a ballot question campaign they say will help protect farm animals from cruelty.

The coalition, Citizens for Farm Animal Protection, includes veterinarians, animal welfare groups, farmers, and others hoping to eliminate what they describe as the extreme confinement of farm animals in small crates and cages.

The measure would require that animals have enough room to turn around, lie down and stretch their limbs.

Supporters on Wednesday include representatives from The Humane Society, the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and the Animal Rescue League of Boston.

“This measure asserts that society will no longer accept the abject suffering of animals as a pathway to profit,” Matt Bershadker, president of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said. “This is a long-standing animal welfare imperative whose time has come.”

The question has been filed with Attorney General Maura Healey, who must determine if it passes constitutional muster — the start of a long, uncertain journey to next year’s ballot.