Washington state has passed a bill that prohibits the use of elephants, bears, wild cats, and nonhuman primates in circuses and other traveling shows.
In a significant move hailed by animal welfare advocates, Washington has become the 12th state to outlaw the exploitation of several wild animal species in circuses and traveling exhibitions. The newly passed legislation, Senate Bill 5065, championed by Senator Marko Liias (D-21), garnered bipartisan support in its journey through the state legislature.
The core objective of this bill is to shield wild animals from the inherent distress and suffering associated with constant transportation and forced performances. The cramped cages, long journeys, and coercive training methods that are often part and parcel of traveling animal acts will soon be a thing of the past in Washington.
The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Bob Ferguson, and if enacted, Washington will join the growing ranks of states like Maryland and Massachusetts, which implemented similar protections in 2024.
Humane World for Animals, a prominent animal advocacy organization, highlighted Washington’s frequent hosting of circuses that feature wild animals. One such circus, the Jordan World Circus, has been known to transport animals across the country, including two elderly elephants named Viola and Isa.
The plight of Viola, estimated to be in her late 50s, gained public attention last year when she escaped her handlers and was seen running through traffic – an incident that marked at least her third escape. This event underscores the inherent risks and stress these animals endure.
“Washington has taken a monumental step toward protecting animals and the public,” stated Dan Paul, western regional director for Humane World for Animals. “If signed into law by Governor Ferguson, this historic legislation will mark the end of a cruel era in which tigers, elephants and other wild animals in Washington were crammed into tiny cages and trailers, carted from show to show, whipped and jabbed, and forced to perform.”
Paul commended Senator Liias and other legislative leaders for their compassionate approach to this issue, recognizing the profound suffering experienced by animals like Viola and Isa. The passage of this bill signifies a growing societal awareness and commitment to the welfare of wild animals, ensuring a more humane future for these creatures within the state of Washington.
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