Malden legislators support passage of animal welfare legislation

On July 31, 2024, State Senator Jason Lewis and State Representatives Paul Donato, Steve Ultrino and Kate Lipper-Garabedian joined their colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature to enact An Act relative to the use of elephants, big cats, primates, giraffes and bears in traveling exhibits and shows. This was signed into law by Governor Maura Healey in early August as Chapter 168 of the Acts of 2024. Massachusetts is the sixth state in the nation to have similar legislation.

“As a life-long animal welfare advocate, I’m very pleased that Massachusetts has taken action to protect these incredible animals from mistreatment in traveling circuses,” said Senator Lewis. “If people wish to see these animals outside of their natural habitats, they should visit accredited zoos, like the Stone Zoo in Stoneham, where the animals are well cared for by professional veterinarians and other staff.”

“This bill is a monumental step forward for animal rights in the Commonwealth,” said Representative Donato. “I am inspired that the legislature took a stand against the misuse of these majestic animals for entertainment purposes. These creatures deserve to live in an environment that respects their natural behaviors and well-being. I am proud of my colleagues for coming together to show our commitment to the ethical treatment of all animals.”

“I am proud of the legislature’s work to protect animals and the advocacy for animal welfare. The passage of the animal welfare bill and the ban of certain animals in traveling acts will protect animals who are unable to protect themselves,” said Representative Ultrino. “With this bill, Massachusetts will no longer allow animals to be subject to mistreatment for the sake of entertainment.”

“I was glad to join my colleagues to make Massachusetts the sixth state to ban the use of elephants, big cats, bears, primates, and giraffes in traveling acts,” said Representative Lipper-Garabedian. “Traveling acts, such as circuses, have long been known for their mistreatment and poor conditions for such animals. This legislation ensures our Commonwealth is protecting these animals and promoting their welfare.”

Circuses and other traveling shows are known for fostering dangerous conditions for large animals. Fortunately, many major establishments, such as the Topsfield Fair, stopped displaying these animals in recent years. This law prohibits traveling acts, such as circuses, carnivals and fairs, from using certain large animals – including lions, tigers, leopards, bears, elephants, giraffes and primates – for entertainment starting in January 2025. Animals that live at the zoo, animals used for filming movies and non-exotic animals, such as horses, chickens, pigs and rabbits, are exempt from this new law.