NJ Governor Vetoes Ban on Hog Gestation Crates

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R) vetoed a politically charged bill that would have banned the use of certain pig crates in his state, reported The Des Moines Register.

Christie called the bill opposing gestation crates a “solution in search of a problem” and “a political movement masquerading as substantive policy.”

The crates, small enough that pregnant pigs can’t turn around in them, have been criticized by animal welfare activists as cruel. Industry leaders say the crates protect sows and piglets.

Christie vetoed similar legislation last year, but advocates had hoped changes would address his concerns. Instead, Christie said he would leave state policy in the hands of the Board of Agriculture and the Department of Agriculture.

“I will rely on our in-state experts rather than the partisan politicians who sponsor this bill,” he said. S