Prohibits the use of primates in entertainment acts

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Linda Rosenthal

Prohibits using primates in live entertainment, forcing venues, trainers, and productions to end primate acts in shows, exhibitions, and related productions.

REFERRED TO AGRICULTURE

Overview

A 1835 is a bill introduced on January 14, 2025 that would prohibit the use of primates in entertainment acts. The primary sponsor is Assemblymember Linda Rosenthal. On introduction, the measure was referred to the Assembly Committee on Agriculture. The bill has related companion measures in other branches or sessions (A 7624 from a prior session and S 5721 in the Senate).

Purpose and Intent

The bill aims to end the use of non-human primates in public entertainment performances. While the exact definitions and scope are contained in the bill’s text, the primary intent is to prohibit primate acts in settings such as live performances, exhibitions, and potentially film/television productions that involve live primates.

Key Provisions (as described)

Prohibition: Bans the use of primates in entertainment acts within the jurisdiction of the bill.

Definitions: The bill would define what constitutes a “primates” and an “entertainment act.” The precise definitions, exemptions, and enforcement mechanisms would be laid out in the enacted text.

Enforcement and Penalties: The bill would establish enforcement provisions and penalties for violations (specifics to be found in the bill’s text).

Exemptions and Compliance: Any potential exemptions (e.g., for educational or sanctuary contexts) and compliance timelines would be detailed in the bill.

Administrative Alignment: Likely alignment with existing animal welfare or agricultural oversight structures, given the referral to the Agriculture committee.

Affected Parties and Impacts

Primates used in entertainment acts (and the facilities, trainers, and productions employing them) would be directly affected.

Entertainment venues, production companies, circuses, and educational or documentary programs that involve primates would need to adjust operations to comply.

Animal welfare organizations and advocates may view the bill as strengthening protections for primates, while industry stakeholders may seek clarifications on exemptions and timelines.

Legislative Status and Next Steps

Status: Referred to the Assembly Agriculture Committee on January 14, 2025 (listed twice in the action log).

Next steps: Upon committee consideration, the bill could be amended, voted on by the committee, and potentially moved to the floor for further action. A Senate companion (S 5721) exists, which may influence cross-chamber action.

Related Legislation

A 7624 (prior-session, Assembly)

S 5721 (companion in the Senate)

Note: Specific provisions such as precise definitions, exemptions, penalties, funding, and effective dates will be detailed in the bill’s full text. This summary reflects information available from the bill’s introductory materials and legislative actions.

Bill