Effort on Capitol Hill to Close Down Captivity of Certain Cetaceans

In July, Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and Representatives Adam Schiff (D-CA), Jared Huffman (D-CA), and Suzan DelBene (D-WA) introduced the Strengthening Welfare in Marine Settings (SWIMS) Act (HR 8514/S 4740). This legislation would phase out the captive display of orcas (also known as killer whales), beluga whales, pilot whales, and false killer whales. Specifically, it would prohibit the breeding, wild capture, and import and export of these species for the purposes of public display, but would not prohibit the continued holding of animals currently in captivity, thus allowing marine theme parks and aquariums time to transition to a more humane future. Science increasingly supports the conclusion that the size and physiological, emotional, and social needs of these species make them unsuitable for life in captivity.

Take Action! Visit AWI’s online Action Center to urge your US representative and senators to cosponsor the SWIMS Act. Prefer putting ink to paper? Address a letter to your representative as follows: The Honorable [full name], US House of Representatives, Washington, DC 20515. Address a letter to each of your senators as follows: The Honorable [full name], US Senate, Washington, DC 20510.

Program Terms: Marine Wildlife

AWI Quarterly Terms: Government/Legal, Quick Read