Federal lawsuit challenges Michigan cage-free egg law

On January 22, 2026, the Department of Justice filed the case in federal court in western Michigan. A judge will decide whether the law can stay in place.

Federal officials argue that eggs are sold across state lines, so Michigan’s rules impact producers outside the state. Any company that wants to sell eggs in Michigan must meet its cage-free standards. 

Critics say the lawsuit echoes what large egg producers have argued for years: fewer state rules and lower costs, even if hens suffer in cages.

KEEP ANIMALS OUT OF CAGES

The meat and egg industry continues to challenge U.S. laws passed to keep hens and pigs out of cages. The “Save Our Bacon Act” was recently introduced to erase these most basic protections.

Demand lawmakers uphold the laws voters passed for animals.

Protect their laws

What Michigan’s cage-free egg law says

Passed with bipartisan support, Michigan’s cage-free egg law took effect in 2025.

It requires that shell eggs sold in the state come from hens raised without cages, if the farm has 3,000 or more hens.

“Shell eggs” means whole eggs sold in cartons. It does not include liquid eggs, powdered eggs, or eggs used in foods like pasta, baked goods, or mayonnaise.

What Michigan’s lawsuit could mean for other states

If Michigan cannot enforce its cage-free egg law, other states could face similar lawsuits.

Michigan is one of ten states that restrict the sale of eggs from caged hens. As consumer expectations shift, more states may consider similar laws.

But a ruling against Michigan could slow that trend, all while making existing animal protection laws easier to overturn.

Cage-free law reaches the Supreme Court

The lawsuit against Michigan’s cage-free egg law is part of a larger clash between states and factory farms. 

California faced a similar test after voters approved Proposition 12, which set space requirements for pigs and other animals. The National Pork Producers Council challenged the law, which was upheld at the Supreme Court.

Now, Michigan is the latest state drawn into the same fight. At the center is a bigger question: how much control do states have over products sold within their borders?

For now, that question sits with the courts–and with the consumers whose choices are reshaping the market.

FOSTER COMPASSION

As a mother capable of empathy, a hen will defend her chicks at all costs.

Support a mother’s love by replacing eggs in your meals with plant‑based alternatives.

Protect hens