Update (August 29, 2016): VICTORY! The governor signed S.B. 1062 into law. Read our press release here.
Bill Description:
This bill would, beginning January 1, 2018, prohibit any person who houses, possesses, or is in direct contact with an elephant from using, or permitting an employee, agent, or contractor to use, a bullhook, ankus, baseball bat, axe handle, pitchfork, or other device designed to inflict pain for the purpose of training or controlling the behavior of an elephant. A person who violates these provisions would be subject to civil penalties and revocation of their wild animal permit.[teaserbreak]
Background:
This bill strengthens existing law related to the treatment of elephants, and builds off of a bill passed by the legislature but vetoed by the governor in 2015.
Existing law makes it a misdemeanor for any owner or manager of an elephant to engage in abusive behavior toward the elephant, which includes disciplining an elephant by certain methods. Existing law also requires a permit for the importation, transportation, possession, or live release of elephants in CA.
Read the sponsor’s press release here.
Read the full text here.