ATKINS BILL TO RESTRICT IVORY SALES PASSES ASSEMBLY

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East County News Service

June 9, 2015 (Sacramento) – The California Assembly has passed Assembly Bil 96, a measure to protect elephants and rhinos by strengthening rules on the ivory and rhino horn trade. AB96 by Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins would end the state’s exemption for selling ivory imported before 1977 The bill would also impose stiff civil and criminal penalties for ivory sales.  Atkins, a San Diego Democrat, says California is a top market for ivory and that this could significantly reduce demand.

Jeff Flocken, North American Regional Director for the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), praised the action. “The ivory trade anywhere is a threat to elephants everywhere,” he says. “ IFAW applauds the actions taken by the California State Assembly to help end the illicit wildlife trade in the U.S.  Given that California is a top market for ivory sales, Tuesday’s vote to end the sale of elephant ivory and rhinoceros horn and increase penalties is a big step towards reaching that goal. Such legislative action effectively reduces demand for ivory in the U.S. and helps to build momentum for global action. “

The measure applies only to new ivory, not antique ivory or items made from it, such as scrimshaw carvings or piano keys.  But IFAW wants to see the measure amended and strengthened when it reaches the State Senate, where Flocken hopes to see “the strongest possible language.

He adds, “ “Experience shows that, until all trade loopholes are closed, poachers and traffickers can continue to find ways to keep the ivory trade alive at the expense of the world’s dwindling elephant populations,” Flocken adds.  IFAW looks forward to working with the California legislature in sending a clear message that the lives of these majestic and intelligent creatures is worth far more than the trinkets carved from their tusks. We urge the California Senate to take quick action to pass this legislation.”

 

 


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