24 April 2026

Citizen-Initiated Ballot Measure in DC to Prohibit the Force Feeding of Birds

PETA Action Alert

A citizen-initiated measure to prohibit the force-feeding of birds and the sale of products made from force-feeding (including foie gras) is in the works in Washington DC, and signature gatherers are needed to hit the streets immediately to talk to residents and collect signatures!

Black and white duck standing on mossy rocks

Pro-Animal DC is coordinating the signature-gathering effort to get this important life-saving bill on DC’s 2026 ballot. If they hit their goal of 24,000 voter signatures, it will be put to voters and made into law. Signature gatherers do not need to be residents of Washington DC or be registered to vote themselves.

Ducks have pipes rammed down their throats three times each day in a process known as “gavage.” The force-feeding causes the birds’ livers to swell to up to 10 times their normal size. Many birds have difficulty standing because their engorged livers distend their abdomens, and they may tear out their own feathers and attack each other out of stress.

Animals need you! Every signature matters and your efforts can directly make or break this piece of legislation.

Sign up to volunteer here!

Thank you for your compassion for animals.

Sincerely,
 
Amber's signature
Amber Canavan
Associate Director of Vegan Campaigns
PETA