REGION — California has become the third U.S. state, after New Jersey and Hawaii, to pass legislation banning the use of wild and exotic animals in circuses. Sponsored by Sen. Ben Hueso and championed by Animal Defenders International (ADI), SB313 has passed both the Assembly and Senate and now heads to Gov. Newsom’s desk.
ADI has provided data and testimony in support of SB313, and worked with local advocates and bill sponsor to advance the legislation.
To date, more than 90 jurisdictions in 32 states have taken action to restrict wild animals from traveling circuses. Other states are also considering bans on wild animal circus acts, and a federal bill to end the use of wild and exotic animals in traveling shows nationwide – the Traveling Exotic Animal and Public Safety Protection Act (TEAPSPA) – is working toward bipartisan support. HR2863 was reintroduced in the House by Representatives Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ) and David Schweikert (R-AZ) in May, and companion bill S2121 was introduced for the first time in the Senate by Bob Menéndez (D-NJ) in July.
ADI President Jan Creamer said: “We are thrilled that California continues to take the lead on animal protection issues. ADI has spent years documenting the inherent suffering of wild animals in circuses and we are delighted to see our efforts come to fruition. We urge more states to follow suit.”
