CA Governor Signs Bill Banning Bullhooks

California Governor Jerry Brown signed a bill today making it illegal for employees of circuses and other travelling animal shows in the state to control elephants using bullhooks and similar implements (such as baseball bats). This makes The Golden State the second in the nation (after Rhode Island) to outlaw the sharp-hooked metal clubs. Those who break the law after it goes into effect in 2018 will face fines of up to $10,000 and revocation of their permits to have elephants. “California has once again demonstrated its commitment to animal protection,” Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States, said. “This bill aligns the state’s policies with the values of its residents.” Last week, the California legislature sent a bill to Governor Brown that would ban orca breeding and performances in the state, but he has yet to sign it.