On Thursday, May 16, 2019, the Assembly Appropriations Committee will consider California's proposed statewide fur ban — Assembly Bill 44. If passed and signed into law, the bill will ban the manufacture, sale, and distribution of new fur products in the state — but it won't happen without your help!
AB 44, which was authored by Assemblymember Laura Friedman (D-Glendale) in December of 2018, passed its first major hurdle on March 12, 2019, when it passed its first committee hearing in the Assembly Water, Parks, and Wildlife Committee by a 10-4 vote. On March 26, the bill passed its second hearing after clearing the state Judiciary Committee by a 9-2 vote.
"It is really encouraging to see the support that this bill is getting from the public and my colleagues," said Assemblymember Friedman. "There are so many alternatives to fur, alternatives that have been largely embraced by the industry, yet there are still thousands of animals every year that are viciously maimed and murdered for only their fur. This practice is not only entirely outdated and unnecessary, it's completely out of line with our state's values."
"Californians love their animals and wildlife. Skinning animals or farming fur for fashion or other accessories is contrary to those values, and I believe it's no longer necessary in a 21st century society," said Assemblymember Todd Gloria (D-San Diego). "It's clear Californians want us to lead on this issue and that is what we are doing with AB 44. I am proud to support this measure and I look forward to its success in the weeks ahead."
Take action and help ban fur statewide! If your assembly member sits on the Assembly Appropriations Committee, urge him or her to SUPPORT AB 44!
Thank you for taking action!
Click here to learn more about the horrific fur industry.
Photo: Unsplash