Overview
- The D.C. Board of Elections certified Initiative 86 for the November ballot after organizers submitted an exceptionally large signature total, placing the ban before voters for a final decision.
- Pro-Animal D.C. said it turned in more than 45,000 signatures, a total organizers say is one of the biggest in the city's initiative history and well above the 5% threshold needed to qualify.
- The measure targets foie gras produced by hand- or tube‑feeding ducks and geese, language in the campaign and initiative text that says the practice induces liver disease and other injuries in birds.
- Local restaurateurs who serve foie gras have publicly opposed the proposal, warning it would affect menus and businesses if voters approve the ban.
- If approved, the law would fine violators (reports say up to $5,000) and allow suspension or revocation of business licenses for serious or repeat breaches, and observers note the ballot fight could prompt legal challenges similar to past foie gras disputes.