Restricts the use of exotic and wild animals in traveling circuses and shows

BILL NUMBER:S4635

Title of bill

An act to amend the agriculture and markets law, in relation to restricting the use of exotic and wild animals in traveling circuses and shows

Purpose

To prohibit the use of exotic and non-domesticated animals in traveling circuses and exhibitions

Summary of provisions

Section one provides that this act shall be known as the "traveling exotic and wild animal protection act."

Section two provides the legislative findings.

Paragraph one of section three amends the agriculture and markets law by adding a new section 352 to prohibit traveling circuses and shows from displaying exotic or wild animals, including non-humane primates. Paragraph two provides that the restriction shall not apply to exotic or wild animals in an exhibition at a non-mobile, permanent institution or facility, including an accredited zoo or aquarium; as part of an outreach program for education or conservation purposes, by a university, college, laboratory, or other registered research facilities; in film, television, or advertising if such use does not involve a live public exhibition; or in a rodeo. Paragraph three provides the penalties for violators of the act. Paragraph four lists exemptions of the act. Paragraph five lists definitions.

Section four provides the effective date.

Justification

Traveling circuses and shows have acute negative effects on the psychological and physical health of the performing animals. The methods of transporting, training, and maintaining these animals are often cruel and inhumane. They are corralled and forced to perform unnatural tasks for the sake of entertainment, while being restricted from exhibiting natural behaviors. Due to their natural wild instincts and the immense amount of stress placed upon the long-range animals especially, rebellious actions often occur, which lead to an increased risk of public safety. Traveling circuses and exhibitions bring the public dangerously close to unpredictable animals, and the temporary, collapsible facilities provide adequate protection. The mobile nature of these shows makes it difficult for law enforcement to supervise animal treatment. There are many alternative animal-free circuses and shows that provide enjoyable human performance focused entertainment for the public.

Prior legislative history

S.5971 of 2013-2014 (Latimer): Died in Agriculture Committee.

Fiscal implications

None to the state.

Effective date

This act shall take effect one year after it shall have become a law.