Update (2/1/2012): The prospect of all fifty states, each having its own standards on proper pig slaughter technique, is unappetizing to meat producers, to the U.S. Congress (which has enacted federal slaughterhouse legislation), and to the justices of the Supreme Court, as well.
Notwithstanding the Star Tribune’s weighing in against Steven Wells and the National Meat Association in an editorial, last week Wells was victorious at the U.S. Supreme Court by unanimous decision.
Original Post (11/9/2011): The state of California would like to impose certain rules on the slaughter of certain “non-ambulatory” livestock, the only problem being that federal laws apply nationwide rules regulating slaughterhouses across the country.
Today, Steve Wells, on behalf of the National Meat Association (see you at the MeatXpo!), argued for reversal of the Court of Appeals decision that went against the association and in favor of the state of California.
According to at least one press account, the U.S. Supreme Court fileted and skewered Wells’ opposing counsel’s arguments. It is, of course, rare for a Minnesota trial lawyer to have the opportunity to argue before the U.S. Supreme Court. Well Done, Steve Wells!!!!