Thanks to Governor Gavin Newsom, California has become the first state in the US to ban the manufacture and sale of animal fur and the third to ban most animals from circus performing. As of 2023, residents of California will no longer be able to make or sell clothing, shoes, or handbags with fur. Those who are found breaking the law will get fined $500 or in repeat cases, $1,000.
Animal rights groups are thrilled and are celebrating the new law. They have requested a ban for quite some time already. These groups have said that animals suffer from gassing, electrocution, and other inhumane actions to acquire their fur.
Humane Society USA said:
We applaud Gov Newsom and the state’s lawmakers for recognizing that California citizens do not want their state’s markets to contribute to the demand for fur products.
The ban could strike a significant blow to the fur industry that produces products from animals such as rabbits, chinchillas, mink, and others. In 2014, the fur industry made $1.5bn in sales. That’s a lot of money!
Ban Exclusions
The fur ban has a few exceptions. It does not apply to used products or those made for religious or tribal purposes. It also does not apply to leather, cowhides, dog and cat fur, sheep, deer and goatskin, and anything preserved by taxidermy.
Those Against The Ban
The billion-dollar US fur industry vigorously opposed the proposal, while the Fur Information Council of America threatened to sue. Keith Kaplan of the Fur Information Council argued that the new law was part of an extremist vegan plan. He believes the vegans are using fur as their first step towards other bans on what we wear and eat. Kaplan believes fake fur is not a renewable or sustainable option.
Furthermore, some opponents of the law said it could cause a black market to open up and influence bans on other products.
Who Else Is Over Fur?
Some big-name fashion designers have already stopped or plan to stop using fur, including Versace, Prada, Gucci, and Giorgio Armani.
Circus Animals
Newsom said:
California is a leader when it comes to animal welfare, and today that leadership includes banning the sale of fur. But we are doing more than that. We are making a statement to the world that beautiful wild animals like bears and tigers have no place on trapeze wires or jumping through flames.
Hawaii and New Jersey were the first two states in the US to ban most animals from circus performances, and now California joins them. The law doesn’t apply to domesticated dogs, cats, horses, and rodeos. Those found breaking the law will be fined up to $25,000 per day for each violation.
For decades, circuses have been declining in popularity. In 2017, the legendary Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus closed after 146 years of performance.
The Southwest California Legislative Council was against the law because it prevents people from being able “to experience the thrill of a circus performance featuring beautiful, well-cared-for animals.”
