New York State Bans Use of Elephants in Circuses
Last Thursday, New York State governor Andrew M. Cuomo signed the Elephant Protection Act into law, effectively banning the use of elephants in entertainment acts.
Governor Cuomo stated:
“The use of elephants in these types of settings is dangerous to their health and potentially abusive. The Elephant Protection Act furthers this administration’s efforts to fight animal cruelty, and create a stronger, more humane New York.”
According to The Humane Society, “the state assembly and senate passed S.2098b/A.464b, sponsored by state Sen. Terrence Murphy, R-Yorktown, and Assemblywoman Amy Paulin, D-Scarsdale” in June, and with the governor’s signature, “the law takes effect in two years.”
The Elephant Protection Act will apply to circuses, carnivals, parades and trade shows, and those who are found in violation can be fined a civil penalty of up to $1,000.
NY Daily News also added that governor Cuomo announced the launch of a $5 million “Companion Animal Capital Fund,” aimed at helping “non-profit and municipal animal shelters upgrade their facilities.” Cuomo stated:
“This funding will better equip New York shelters to continue their important work of finding these pets a loving home in New York.”
Photo Credit: www.critterbabies.com
