Two More States Ban Wild Animal Circus Acts

In May, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore signed SB 547/HB 379 into law, prohibiting the use of elephants, big cats, bears, and nonhuman primates in traveling shows and circuses in the state. In August, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey signed a similar bill into law: H 4915 (which also includes giraffes in the ban).

Captive wild animals in circuses endure countless hours confined to cramped cages and trailers as they are hauled from show to show. They are often subjected to cruel training methods to force them to perform, and may be beaten, harshly restrained, and sedated by their handlers. Moreover, placing large, unpredictable wild animals so close to human audiences poses a significant public safety risk; there have been numerous tragic incidents resulting in injuries and deaths to circus animals, trainers, and audience members. Eleven states now restrict or ban wild animal acts.

Program Terms: Terrestrial Wildlife

AWI Quarterly Terms: Government/Legal