This
week, Take Action Thursday urges support for a ban on the use
of abusive training devices that inflict pain on elephants in circuses and
traveling exhibitions.
State
Legislation
Despite the recent retirement of performing elephants
by the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, there are still dozens of
elephants forced to perform in circuses
and traveling exhibitions around the country. Bullhooks, which resemble
fireplace pokers with sharp hooks at the ends, are one of several devices used
to train and control elephants through inflicting pain and instilling fear. Fortunately,
some jurisdictions have already taken a stand against these abusive training
practices. In 2013, Los Angeles became the first city to ban the use of
bullhooks on elephants in traveling circuses. Subsequently, several other
jurisdictions, including Miami, FL, Fulton County, GA, and Richmond, VA, have
enacted similar bans.
In California,
SB 1062
would prohibit persons in direct contact with elephants from using, or allowing
the use of, abusive training devices such as bullhooks, ankuses, baseball bats,
axe handles and pitchforks on elephants. The bill would impose civil penalties
for its violation, as well as revocation of restricted species permits. Several
California cities already have similar bans on bullhooks, and it is hoped that
the rest of the state will follow their lead. The Senate has already passed
this measure and it is now before the House for a final vote.
If you live in California, please contact your state Representative
and ask them to SUPPORT this legislation.
TAKE ACTION »
In Rhode
Island, HB 8197
was signed into law by Governor Gina Raimondo on July 20, 2016, making Rhode
Island the first state to outlaw the use of bullhooks on elephants in circuses
and traveling shows. Congratulations to Rhode Island for taking the lead on
this issue!
If
you would like your state to adopt a prohibition on the use of bullhooks and
other inhumane training implements on elephants, consider sending a model
law
to your legislators and asking them to introduce a bill in your state next
year.
Want to do more? Visit the NAVS Advocacy
Center to TAKE ACTION on behalf of animals in your state
and around the country.
For the latest information
regarding animals and the law, visit NAVS’ Animal Law Resource Center.
|