In December 2025, Ohio became the 11th state—and the first top pork-producing state—to restrict the use of cruel gestation crates for pregnant pigs. Now it’s time for Illinois to follow suit.

Gestation crates are small metal cages so narrow that pregnant pigs cannot turn around or lie down comfortably for months, sometimes even years. These conditions are not just inhumane—they are unnecessary. Over the last decade, veterinarians, animal scientists, and farmers in Ohio worked together to adopt science-based housing standards that phase out this extreme confinement while still supporting a strong agricultural economy. If Ohio can do it, Illinois can too.

Illinois has a proud farming tradition and a growing consumer demand for more ethical food. But right now, our state has no laws restricting the use of gestation crates—putting us behind the curve on basic animal welfare. That needs to change.

Ohio's model proves there’s a smarter, kinder way forward: farmers, scientists, and policymakers working together on standards that reflect both compassion and common sense. This isn’t a partisan issue—it’s about doing what’s right for animals, farmers, and the public.

We call on the Illinois General Assembly and Governor J.B. Pritzker to pass legislation that bans the use of gestation crates in our state and supports a transition to humane group housing systems. The people of Illinois deserve a food system that reflects our values—and animals deserve to be treated with basic dignity.

Add your name to demand a crate-free future for Illinois pigs.