Ban on Keeping Elephants in Zoos and Safari Parks
This new law aims to prohibit the keeping of African and Asian elephants in zoos and safari parks across the United States. All existing elephants will be transferred to specialized, accredited wildlife sanctuaries, intending to improve their welfare and living conditions. Citizens may notice changes in zoo exhibits, but the law's primary goal is to ensure better conditions for these animals.
Key points
Prohibits keeping elephants in zoos and safari parks in the U.S. within one year of the law's enactment.
All elephants currently in captivity must be transferred to authorized wildlife sanctuaries within three years.
Sanctuaries must meet high standards for care, space, and natural environments, and cannot breed, exhibit for profit, or use animals for public entertainment.
The government will study the feasibility of elephant transfers and may establish a grant program to support sanctuaries.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_3456
Sponsor: Rep. Malliotakis, Nicole [R-NY-11]
Process start date: 2025-05-15