Los Angeles to Ban Fur

Los Angeles city council members unanimously voted today to move forward a proposal to ban fur within city limits—which, when written into law, would make the city the largest in the country to ban the animal product. The proposal was put forth by Councilmember Bob Blumenfield, co-presented by Councilmember Paul Koretz, seconded by Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, and supported by animal-rights organization Animal Hope Wellness Foundation (AHWF). “Los Angeles has taken an ethical and moral stand that cruelty to animals is not acceptable,” AHWF CEO Marc Ching said. “The fur ban is not just about creating an awareness about animal welfare—it is about creating a more humane community, about being in line with this city’s values.” The proposal is now in the hands Mike Feuer, the Los Angeles City Attorney, who will draft an ordinance, which the city council must approve within 24 months to move the ban forward. “It’s 2018—there’s no excuse for being complicit in this inhumane and unnecessary trade. With this vote, we are telling the world that Angelenos care about animal welfare,” Blumenfield said. “We will continue to be a leader in animal welfare efforts, and must work with other cities and states until this vile practice is ended across our nation.” Los Angeles will become the fourth city in California to ban fur following San Francisco’s ban earlier this year.