In Illinois, millions of egg-laying hens spend every day of their lives crammed into tiny wire cages—each bird confined to less space than a single sheet of paper. These battery cages prevent hens from walking, stretching their wings, or laying their eggs in nests. It's a system that denies them even the most basic animal needs, and it’s still perfectly legal in our state.

Eleven states—including California, Colorado, Michigan, and Utah—have passed bans on cages for egg-laying hens. But Illinois has yet to act, despite growing public awareness of the cruelty these animals endure. Hens in battery cages often live in filth, unable to escape their own waste, and are forced to endure painful procedures like beak-cutting just to survive the stress of confinement.

While cage-free systems aren’t without flaws, they offer clear, science-backed improvements: hens can walk, perch, nest, and dustbathe—behaviors that drastically reduce their suffering.

 A bipartisan majority of voters support humane reforms in farming, and it’s time our state laws caught up with our values.

We are calling on the Illinois General Assembly and Governor JB Pritzker to pass legislation that bans the use of cages for egg-laying hens statewide. This is a chance for Illinois to lead the Midwest in advancing animal welfare and to join a growing national movement toward compassionate food systems.

Let’s choose dignity over cruelty. Sign the petition and tell Illinois lawmakers: ban battery cages now.