The controversy over a California law that bars livestock which cannot walk from entering the country's food supply will be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court next month.
The state law,amended in 2008 in the aftermath of an investigation at the Westland/Hallmark plant in Chino, has created a legal showdown between the nationwide meatpacking industry and advocates for farm animals.
At issue is whether California can create its own laws to safeguard its food supply and prevent farm animal abuse, while preempting federal law which regulates slaughterhouses and prevents the slaughter and processing of cattle which cannot walk, according to court briefs.
The issue is set to be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court on Nov. 9, according to the court.