In response to increasing egg prices, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo signed Assembly Bill 171, which took effect immediately. The new legislation grants the state agriculture director the authority to suspend the requirement for all eggs sold in the state to be cage-free. This measure will remain in effect for 120 days, provided certain conditions, such as disease outbreaks or natural disasters, are met, as reported by FOX5.
The governor moved quickly to sign AB 171 less than two weeks after its introduction to the legislature, aiming to address the egg crisis affecting the Silver State. This action contrasts with the previous situation, where rising egg prices led to significant consumer dissatisfaction, according to News3LV.
Assembly Bill 171 also includes provisions allowing the sale of Grade B eggs, typically reserved for baking or liquid egg products due to their imperfect appearance, according to USDA cited by News3LV. With the bill now in effect, the retail egg supply is expected to increase, potentially providing relief to consumers from recent price hikes. Additionally, small farmers are now able to sell their eggs directly to retailers, which could lead to notable changes in the local egg market.
"This bipartisan legislation represents how effective the legislature can be when they work together," Governor Lombardo highlighted the importance of addressing the economic challenges faced by Nevada residents. He also expressed support for more long-term solutions, advocating for the repeal of the cage-free egg law established in Assembly Bill 399 (2021) to help alleviate financial strain. Lombardo also pointed to the bird flu outbreak, which contributed to the increase in egg prices across the nation, in a statement obtained by FOX5.
With the passage of AB 171, the responsibility now rests with the state's quarantine officer to issue the necessary orders for the changes to take effect.
