This landmark legislation solidifies Massachusetts’ commitment to animal welfare and follows more than two decades of relentless advocacy.
The new law comes with steep penalties, imposing civil fines ranging from $500 to $10,000 per animal, per offense. It also enjoys widespread support, with over two-thirds of Massachusetts voters backing the move.
“For years, circuses have harmed the welfare of animals for the sake of entertainment,” said Governor Maura Healey as she signed the bill into law. “I’m thankful to the Legislature for taking the steps needed to prevent this kind of animal mistreatment in Massachusetts.”
This legislation tackles long-standing concerns about the treatment of wild animals in traveling performances. Preyel Patel, state director for the Humane Society, emphasized that it puts an end to the abusive training methods and cruel living conditions these animals have endured.
“This historic legislation marks the end of an era where tigers, elephants, and other wild animals are forced to perform under deplorable conditions, including being whipped and confined to small cages to travel from show to show,” Patel stated.
House Minority Leader Bradley H. Jones Jr. echoed this sentiment, shedding light on the suffering these animals endure. “These animals are often subject to cruel and inhumane treatment, including prolonged periods of confinement and other forms of neglect and abuse,” he said.
With this ban, Massachusetts becomes the sixth state to outlaw the use of wild animals in circuses, following New Jersey, Hawaii, California, Colorado, and Maryland. While local bans had already been established in several Massachusetts communities, a statewide prohibition was long overdue.
The law makes exceptions for animals used in zoos and movie sets, which remain regulated by organizations like the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA) and the American Humane Society (AHS). This shift is part of a larger industry trend, as even legendary circus companies like Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey have phased out wild animal acts.
Beyond banning cruel performances, this law highlights the plight of vulnerable species often exploited in circuses. Senate President Karen E. Spilka underscored the importance of protecting these animals. “Some of the most majestic creatures on our planet should not be treated inhumanely simply for profit or entertainment.”
Animal rights advocates hope this legislation will inspire more states to take similar action and encourage the public to rethink the role of wild animals in entertainment. As Massachusetts leads the way, it sets a powerful precedent that the exploitation of animals for human amusement is a thing of the past.
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