Washington has taken a major step toward protecting wild animals from exploitation in circuses and other traveling shows. Senate Bill 5065, which prohibits the use of certain animals in traveling animal acts, has successfully passed the House and is now headed to Governor Bob Ferguson’s desk for signature.
If signed into law, Washington will join a growing number of states taking action to end the outdated and inhumane practice of forcing wild animals to perform for entertainment. The state would become the ninth with such protections, joining others like California, Colorado, and Massachusetts. Several cities in Washington already have local bans in place.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Saldaña and supported by Senators Liias, Lovick, Stanford, Bateman, Frame, Krishnadasan, Nobles, and Riccelli, prohibits the use of elephants, nonhuman primates, bears, and non-domestic cats (such as lions, tigers, and leopards) in traveling performances. Violations would be classified as a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and/or a $5,000 fine.
Traveling animal acts often transport animals in cramped trailers as they move from one location to the next. This practice deprives the animals of their natural behaviors, opportunities for social interaction, and adequate veterinary care. Testimonies supporting the bill outline the physical and psychological distress these animals experience. From living in constant confinement and being coerced into performing unnatural tricks to enduring fear-based training methods, the suffering of these animals is evident.
“Even with the best intentions, traveling acts cannot provide for an animal’s physical, mental, and psychological needs,” said animal advocates during public testimony. “These performances are not educational — they are exploitative.”
The legislation includes exemptions for USDA-licensed permanent institutions, such as accredited zoos and sanctuaries, while still allowing cities and counties to pass stricter regulations if they choose. This ensures that, while the most egregious forms of entertainment-based animal abuse are prohibited statewide, local jurisdictions retain the right to offer animals even greater protections.
Wild animals are not props or performers — they are sentient beings who deserve respect and the freedom to live in environments suited to their species-specific needs.
Washington residents, your voice is crucial right now. Please call Governor Bob Ferguson at (360) 902-4111 and urge him to sign SB 5065 into law. If you leave a message, be sure to include your name and address to confirm you’re a Washington resident.
You can also help by sending Governor Ferguson a message urging him to sign this critical bill HERE!
