# US municipal foie gras bans

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/us-municipal-foie-gras-bans
> Updated: 2026-11-09T08:30:00.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Voters in Washington, D.C. and Denver have approved measures to ban the commercial sale of foie gras produced through the traditional force-feeding of ducks and geese.

In Washington, D.C., the measure, known as Initiative 86, passed with approximately 73 percent voter support. The initiative prohibits both the force-feeding of birds and the importation of products derived from that process. The debate surrounding the initiative highlighted tensions between animal rights activists and culinary professionals. Local business owners noted that the policy could have potential nationwide implications and became a focal point for political discussion during the election cycle.

In Denver, the ban passed with roughly 66.5 percent of the vote. Under these new regulations, businesses such as restaurants and grocery stores that violate the rules could face significant fines. In Washington, D.C., penalties are expected to range from 1,000 to 5,000 dollars per violation, with the possibility of suspended operating licenses for repeat offenders.

## Timeline

### 2026-11-09: Washington DC voters consider Initiative 86 foie gras ban

Washington DC voters weighed Initiative 86, a proposal to ban foie gras production and importation, sparking debate between animal rights activists and local chefs.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/washington-dc-voters-consider-initiative-86-foie-gras-ban

### 2026-11-04: Washington and Denver voters approve ban on foie gras

Voters in Washington, D.C. and Denver have approved bans on the sale of foie gras produced through force-feeding.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/washington-dc-voters-approve-ban-on-foie-gras-sales

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Cite as: US municipal foie gras bans. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/us-municipal-foie-gras-bans