Measure to provide better treatment of farm animals passes

Because there are few veal producers in the state and the largest pork producer here voluntarily plans to eliminate small crates, the law will mostly affect the state's 20 million egg-laying hens. It does not go into effect until 2015.

The measure, which was championed by the Humane Society of the U.S. and the California Veterinary Medical Assn., is seen by supporters as a move away from cruel treatment of animals raised for food.

Opponents, including large egg farmers in the state and across the country, and the American College of Poultry Veterinarians, decried the measure as economically disastrous for California egg producers.

Each side of the issue raised about $8.5 million for its campaign.

Hall is a Times staff writer.

carla.hall@latimes.com