SUBCHAPTER IV

SLAUGHTER

I.§2521. Humane methods of slaughter

A method of slaughtering or handling in connection with slaughtering does not comply with the public policy of the State unless it is humane. Either of the following 2 methods of slaughtering and handling are humane:

1.__Humane slaughter.__In the case of livestock, rendering animals insensible to pain by a single blow or gunshot or an electrical, chemical or other means that is rapid and effective before they are shackled, hoisted, thrown, cast or cut; or

2.__Ritual slaughter.__Slaughtering and handling in accordance with the ritual requirements of a religious faith that prescribes a method of slaughter whereby the animal suffers loss of consciousness by anemia of the brain caused by the simultaneous and instantaneous severance of the carotid arteries with a sharp instrument.

II.§2521-A.__Methods research; designation of methods

The commissioner may:

1.__Research.__Conduct, assist and foster research, investigation and experimentation to develop and determine methods of slaughter and handling of livestock in connection with slaughter that are practicable with reference to the speed and scope of slaughtering operations and humane with reference to other existing methods and current scientific knowledge; and

2.__Conform to chapter.__Designate methods of slaughter and handling in connection with slaughter that, with respect to each species of livestock, conform to this chapter. The commissioner may make any such designation by designating methods that are not in conformity with this chapter.

§2521-B.__Inspection for use of humane slaughtering methods

For the purpose of preventing the inhumane slaughtering of livestock, the commissioner shall appoint inspectors to examine and inspect the method by which livestock are slaughtered and