Are there any laws that protect animals from being used for circuses?
Yes, there are laws that protect animals from being used for circuses in California. California Assembly Bill (AB)2140 was passed in 2017, making it illegal for any circus to use wild animals. This law was the first of its kind in the United States, and it applies specifically to animal circuses and traveling shows. The law prohibits the use of any animal species of the class Mammalia, which includes animals like elephants, tigers, lions, bears, and primates in circuses and traveling shows. It also makes it illegal to use elephants for rides, performances, or entertainment. The penalty for violating the law is a fine of up to $5,000. In addition to monetary fines, any circus that continues to use animals for entertainment could have their license suspended or revoked and be subject to criminal charges. The law is part of California’s progressive stance on animal rights and seeks to protect wild animals from the harms of living in captivity and performing in circuses. It also serves to discourage other states and jurisdictions from allowing the use of wild animals in circuses. By passing this legislation, California is setting an example for other states to follow in the fight for animal rights.
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