Massachusetts Passes Historic Law To End The Exploitation Of Elephants, Lions & Other Wild Animals In Circuses

Hopeful news as a landmark bill was signed into law by Governor Maura Healey on Friday, ending the use of elephants, big cats, primates, giraffes, and bears in traveling exhibits and shows in Massachusetts.

This new legislation (H.4915) safeguards wild animals from being exploited for entertainment, enduring harsh training techniques, and being subjected to extended confinement and constant transportation. Training methods such as bullhooks, whips, and electric prods will no longer be used.

“After more than two decades of tireless advocacy to end the cruel exploitation of wild animals in circuses, our state has taken a monumental step forward to protect animals and the public. This historic legislation marks the end of an era where tigers, elephants, and other wild animals are forced to perform under deplorable conditions, including being whipped and forced into small cages to travel from show to show across the Commonwealth,” said Preyel Patel, Massachusetts state director for the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). “Wild animals will no longer be subjected to a life of suffering for entertainment in our state.”

This critical bill was sponsored by Chairwoman Carole Fiola, Leader Brad Jones, and Senators Adam Gomez and Bruce Tarr, along with the leadership of Speaker Ron Mariano, Senate President Karen Spilka, Chairman Aaron Michlewitz, Chairman Michael Rodrigues, Chairwoman Mindy Domb and Chairman Paul Mark, all who were instrumental in achieving this victory.

Since 1990, nearly 160 dangerous incidents involving big cats, bears, elephants, and primates in traveling shows have been reported in the U.S., resulting in 10 adult deaths, 136 adult injuries, and 73 injuries to children.

In 2017, a capuchin monkey bit an 18-year-old girl at the Brockton Fair in Massachusetts. In 2019, Beulah, an Asian elephant used by Commerford & Sons for over 40 years, died from a long-standing infection while being forced to work. Carson & Barnes, another exhibitor, was caught on camera abusing elephants with bullhooks and electric prods and was responsible for several elephant escapes. In April 2024, an elephant named Viola bolted from handlers for the third time during a performance in Montana.

As of 2024, several states have already enacted bans or significant restrictions on the use of wild animals in traveling shows. These states include California, New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts, among others.

“Having witnessed the overwhelming evidence and strong public sentiment against the use of wild animals in traveling acts, I am proud to see this crucial legislation enacted,” said Representative Fiola. “As a sponsor of this bill, it has been a profound responsibility and privilege to champion significant change. With over two-thirds of Massachusetts voters supporting the ban on wild animal acts, it’s clear that our constituents demanded an end to animal exploitation for entertainment. This legislation not only reflects that collective desire but also reinforces our state’s commitment to the humane treatment of all animals.”

“In 2019, we witnessed a tragic event in our district during the Big E Fair, when an elephant named Beulah, owned by R.W. Commerford & Sons, collapsed and died. She had been taken from her mother in the wild at a young age and spent her life in conditions that ultimately led to her premature death,” said Senator Gomez. “Her story is a heartbreaking reminder of the urgency of this legislation. With the passage of these bills, Massachusetts has taken a firm stand against such mistreatment and neglect, ensuring a more humane future for these animals.”

Banning wild animals in circuses significantly reduces animal suffering, protects their physical and mental well-being, and prevents dangerous incidents involving both animals and people. It also encourages more ethical and humane practices, fostering a greater respect for wildlife. We must urge the remaining states to join the ban on allowing wild animals in circuses.

You can help wild animals by supporting legislation that bans their use, advocating for the ethical treatment of animals, donating to wildlife protection organizations, and raising awareness about these issues through social media and community outreach. We can make a difference to protect our wildlife!