Assembly Bill 171, which aims to temporarily suspend Nevada’s cage-free egg sale rule, is moving to the governor’s desk after receiving unanimous approval from the Legislature. The bill addresses egg shortages and rising costs due to an avian flu outbreak that has disrupted the national egg supply, causing significant price increases. Nevada’s cage-free egg laws currently require most eggs sold in the state to come from cage-free hens, which adds another challenge during supply shortages.
The bill, sponsored by Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager and Assembly member Howard Watts, would authorize the state’s quarantine officer to temporarily suspend these requirements during events negatively impacting the national egg supply chain, such as disease outbreaks or national disasters. The bill was prioritized to help make life more affordable for Nevadans by potentially lowering food prices.
AB 171 allows for a suspension of up to 120 days at a time, with a maximum of two suspensions per calendar year. It also requires a 14-day notice before the suspension ends. Additionally, the bill permits state officials to consider other regulatory adjustments during such events, like allowing the sale of grade B eggs or simplifying rules for small flock owners to sell eggs. Health and food safety regulations would remain unchanged.
The bill will take effect upon the governor’s approval. As of Wednesday afternoon, Governor Joe Lombardo had not yet announced when he would review the bill.