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Bill

A 5386

Expands list of animals prohibited from use in traveling animal acts; limits certain exceptions to apply only at educational institutions.

2024-2025 Regular Session Introduced by Shama Haider and 1 co-sponsor

New Jersey bill expands animal act bans in traveling shows, restricting exceptions to educational institutions only, to reduce circus animal welfare harms.

Introduced in the Assembly, Referred to Assembly Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture Committee
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Bill Summary · A 5386

Legislative bill overview

Bill A 5386 expands New Jersey's prohibition on animals used in traveling animal acts by adding more species to the banned list and restricts existing exceptions so they apply only to educational institutions. The bill aims to eliminate the use of certain animals in circuses and similar traveling performances while preserving their use in legitimate educational settings.

Why is this important

Animal welfare advocates view traveling circuses as inherently cruel due to transportation stress, inadequate living conditions, and forced performances. This bill would reduce animal suffering by removing them from commercial entertainment while allowing their continued use for legitimate educational purposes like zoos or schools that meet defined standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on entertainment industry: Circuses and traveling animal acts employ people and generate revenue; the bill eliminates this business model in New Jersey, though operators could relocate or adapt their acts
  • Definition and enforcement of "educational institutions": The bill's success depends on clear criteria for what qualifies as educational, which could lead to disputes or create loopholes for commercial operations claiming educational status
  • Scope of prohibited animals: Determining which species should be banned is contentious—animal rights groups want broader restrictions while entertainment and agricultural interests argue some animals are well-suited to travel and performance

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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