Pigs and Public Health Act

The Pigs and Public Health Act prohibits the use of beta-adrenergic agonist drugs like ractopamine for growth promotion or feed efficiency in pigs (not for treating disease), sets new transportation standards to prevent pigs from becoming nonambulatory (including requirements for space, bedding, temperature control, and water access), and mandates humane euthanasia of nonambulatory pigs. It prohibits processing meat from nonambulatory pigs, establishes an online complaint portal for confidential reporting of violations, and requires a study on public health risks associated with pathogens like swine influenza and Salmonella. These provisions apply to pork producers, slaughter facilities, and workers in the pork industry. The bill aims to improve animal welfare, worker safety, and public health by preventing diseased pigs from entering the food supply. Regulations must be issued within one year of enactment.