Governor Directs Department of Agriculture to Undertake Rulemaking to Delay Cage-Free Egg Law by 7 Years

Phoenix, AZ – Today, Governor Katie Hobbs directed the Arizona Department of Agriculture to undertake rulemaking that will delay implementation of Arizona’s cage free egg rule in response to rising egg prices.

“Like many Arizonans, I’m worried about the cost of groceries,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “Avian flu is devastating chicken populations and sending egg prices skyrocketing, and off the shelves completely in many cases. That’s why I’m taking action to lower costs and cut regulations that make working families pay more.”

“The Arizona Department of Agriculture is committed to working productively with farmers to ensure Arizona remains a leader in the agricultural industry,” said Arizona Department of Agriculture Director Paul Brierley. “We will begin working immediately on this rulemaking process.”

Avian flu has forced the culling of chickens across the country, causing egg prices to increase 38% in 2024, with experts estimating another 20% increase in 2025. 

Under current policy, the cage free egg rule would go into effect on January 1, 2027. By delaying implementation, Arizona egg producers will not be forced to shut down production while converting facilities to cage free in the midst of an avian flu outbreak that has only worsened in recent months.  This action will allow Arizona egg producers to focus on increasing production and lowering the cost of eggs in Arizona grocery stores.

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