Victory! Illinois Expands Historic Ban On Wild Animals Used In Traveling Acts
Governor JB Pritzker has signed HB 4255 into law, expanding the state’s existing protections to prohibit the use of big cats, primates, and bears in traveling acts, including circuses, fairs, and other performances. The new law takes effect on July 1.
The legislation builds on Illinois’ historic 2017 law, which made the state the first in the nation to ban the use of elephants in traveling acts, further strengthening protections for captive wild animals. Animals used in traveling acts are often subjected to harsh training methods, chronic confinement, and constant transportation, spending much of their lives in small cages while enduring significant physical and psychological stress.
“We celebrate Governor Pritzker’s signing of HB 4255, which will end the use of some of the most exploited wild animals in traveling acts,” said Marc Ayers, Illinois state director for Humane World for Animals.
“These acts put public safety at risk and expose animals to harm. In 2017, Illinois became the first state in the country to ban the use of elephants in circuses and other traveling acts and this bill builds on that landmark victory.”
Ayers added, “Illinois now aligns with what society recognizes to be true: forcing big cats, bears and primates to perform through pain, fear and coercion is cruel and unacceptable. We thank the legislature for passing this bill and Governor Pritzker for signing this historic legislation into law, once again cementing Illinois’ leadership in animal welfare.”
The measure was sponsored by Sen. Linda Holmes and Rep. Kelly Cassidy and passed with overwhelming bipartisan support before reaching the governor’s desk. With this legislation now signed into law, Illinois continues to lead the way in ending the exploitation of wild animals for entertainment.
World Animal News and Peace 4 Animals applaud Illinois for its continued leadership in advancing animal welfare. WAN hopes more states will follow Illinois’ example by ending the use of wild animals for entertainment once and for all.
