Assemblywoman Amy Paulin (D-88) is proud to announce that A.464B/S.2098B, legislation she authored, was signed into law on Thursday by Governor Andrew Cuomo.

The bill, which is known as The Elephant Protection Act, would ensure that no person, group or entertainment company shall use elephants in any type of entertainment act. It safeguards all elephants from the physical and psychological harm inflicted upon them by living conditions, treatment and cruel methods that are necessary to train them to perform in entertainment acts such as circuses.

“Elephants have been exploited and abused in entertainment acts for too long,” Paulin said. “Confinement, torture and unhealthy living conditions have led to early death for these intelligent, gentle animals. Today, New York has become the leader in ending this horrible practice. Elephants will no longer be subjected to cruel treatment for our amusement.”

The idea for the bill originated with students from Pace University’s Environmental Policy Clinic.

“It is time society put an end to this barbaric relic of another age,” said Michelle Land, clinical professor of environmental law and policy at Pace. “Wild elephant populations are in dire straits globally. By recognizing its duty to end entertainment acts that perpetuate misinformation and false values about the species, New York State is setting an example today that we believe other states will follow”

Terrence Murphy (R-40) sponsored the bill in the Senate.

“Thanks to the advocacy of the students, staff and faculty of the Pace University Environmental Clinic, New York State has now passed significant legislation that will protect elephants from cruel and inhumane treatment. Once again, New York State is proving to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves,” Murphy said.