BOSTON (September 13, 2024) —State Senator Jason Lewis and State Representatives Paul Donato, Steve Ultrino, and Kate Lipper-Garabedian joined their colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature to pass an animal welfare bill that bans the use of elephants, big cats, bears, primates, and giraffes in traveling acts, such as circuses. Massachusetts is the sixth state in the nation to enact similar legislation.
“As a life-long animal welfare advocate, I’m very pleased that Massachusetts has taken action to protect these incredible animals from mistreatment in traveling circuses,” said State Senator Jason Lewis. “If people wish to see these animals outside of their natural habitats, they should visit accredited zoos, like the Stone Zoo in Stoneham, where the animals are well cared for by professional veterinarians and other staff.”
“This bill is a monumental step forward for animal rights in the Commonwealth,” said State Representative Paul Donato. “I am inspired that the legislature took a stand against the misuse of these majestic animals for entertainment purposes. These creatures deserve to live in an environment that respects their natural behaviors and well-being. I am proud of my colleagues for coming together to show our commitment to the ethical treatment of all animals.”
“I am proud of the legislature’s work to protect animals and the advocacy for animal welfare. The passage of the animal welfare bill and the ban of certain animals in traveling acts will protect animals who are unable to protect themselves,” said State Representative Steven Ultrino. “With this bill, Massachusetts will no longer allow animals to be subject to mistreatment for the sake of entertainment.”
“I was glad to join my colleagues to make Massachusetts the sixth state to ban the use of elephants, big cats, bears, primates, and giraffes in traveling acts,” said State Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian. “Traveling acts, such as circuses, have long been known for their mistreatment and poor conditions for such animals. This legislation ensures our Commonwealth is protecting these animals and promoting their welfare.”
Circuses and other traveling shows are known for fostering dangerous conditions for large animals. Fortunately, many major establishments, such as the Topsfield Fair, have already stopped displaying these animals in recent years.
This legislation will prohibit traveling acts, such as circuses, carnivals, and fairs, from using certain large animals, including lions, tigers, leopards, bears, elephants, giraffes, and primates for entertainment starting in January, 2025. Animals that live at the zoo; animals used for filming movies; and non-exotic animals such as horses, chickens, pigs, and rabbits will be exempt from this new law.
After passing in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, this legislation was signed into law by Governor Maura Healey on August 9, 2024.
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Press Contact:
Hannah Li
Office of State Representative Steve Ultrino
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