Report Supporting New York City Council Legislation to Prohibit the Display of Wild or Exotic Animals for Public Entertainment or Amusement

SUMMARY

The Animal Law Committee issued a report in support of a New York City Council bill which would prohibit performances by wild or exotic animals for public entertainment or amusement in New York City. Under the proposed legislation, “performance” means any exhibition, public showing, presentation, display, exposition, fair, act, circus, ride, trade show, petting zoo, carnival, parade, race, performance, or similar undertaking in which animals are required to perform tricks, give rides, or participate as accompaniments for the entertainment, amusement, or benefit of a live audience. The bill would exempt educational and research institutions such as wildlife sanctuaries, accredited zoos and aquariums from the prohibition. The Committee’s report offers several recommendations in order to clarify drafting ambiguities and/or to improve the effectiveness of the bill.

BILL INFORMATION

Int. No. 1233-2016 – prohibiting the display of wild or exotic animals for public entertainment or amusement.

OUTCOME

Signed by the Mayor, 2017/118 – July 22, 2017