Circus Cruelty No More: The Passage of ESB 5065

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 9, 2025

Olympia, WA – Animal Rights Initiative is proud to announce that Engrossed Senate Bill 5065 has been passed today in the Washington State House of Representatives with a vote tally of 65 Yeas, 32 Nays, 0 Absent, and 1 Excused. The bill now advances to Governor Ferguson’s desk for final approval.

A Hard-Fought Victory for Animal Welfare

After 2.5 years of relentless effort and extensive advocacy, ESB 5065 marks a significant milestone for animal welfare in Washington. The initiative to resurrect this legislation began in February 2022, having drawn inspiration from previous attempts made by Representative Appleton. Prime sponsorship was secured early on by Representative Leavitt and Senator Liias in August 2022, both lawmakers determined to ending this cruelty. Since then, the bill has evolved through numerous modifications in partnership with a wide array of stakeholders and collaborators including countless Washington residents passionate about protecting animal rights.

The Need for Change

Decades of high-profile incidents involving circus acts have underscored the urgent need for this legislation. Elephants used in Washington have been performing for over 50 years, and are older than most members of the state legislature. Viola, specifically, has also escaped three times. This bill eliminates long-distance travel and forced exhibition practices for these majestic wild animals. Specifically, ESB 5065 prohibits the traveling exhibition of four key species:

• Elephants
• Non-Domesticated Big Cats (lions and tigers, excluding non-threatened house cats such as Bengals)
• Non-human Primates
• Bears

This statute builds upon the 2007 Dangerous Wild Animal Act that already banned private ownership of these species, now extending protections by preventing out-of-state entertainment enterprises from transporting these animals through Washington for performance purposes.

Testimony and Hearings

At the committee hearings, Animal Rights Initiative representative Amanda Fox testified passionately about the critical need for ESB 5065, drawing attention to the unacceptable conditions and mounting evidence of welfare violations. With over 40 documented violations for each circus operating in Washington and eyewitness accounts of mistreatment, the need for enhanced regulation was made clear. Wendy Linton also testified on the extensive list of dangerous attacks by snapped animals in the circus, highlighting the risk to public safety and mental anguish of the animals.

Voices from the Legislature and Community

Legislators on both sides of the aisle have stood united in support of this groundbreaking legislation. Representative Darya Farivar powerfully captured the sentiment by declaring, “Some traditions deserve to end.” Her remarks resonate with a growing consciousness surrounding our treatment of animals historically. Because we know animals are capable of feeling joy and suffering, we have the power to choose to evolve. We don't need to be so trapped in looking good that we make excuses for our horrific treatment of animals and continue doing it.

This couldn't have been done without the years of hard work by the champions, Sen. Liias and Rep. Leavitt   – their leadership and vision have been the driving force behind reviving and refining this vital legislation. Animal Rights Initiative would also like to extend a huge thanks to Representative Goodman, Representative Dhingra, and Representative Farivar for their outstanding efforts.  Together, we have made a huge difference.

A Future of Safer and More Humane Entertainment

ESB 5065 represents a decisive step forward in modernizing animal performance regulations in Washington. The bill will:

• Prevent the long-distance transportation of select dangerous wild animals.
• Enhance public safety by reducing the risk of catastrophic animal escapes.
• Uphold the highest standards of animal care already demonstrated in cities such as Spokane, Darrington, Snohomish, Port Townsend, Redmond, and Wenatchee.
• Align Washington State with global reforms—over 50 countries and 11 U.S. states have implemented similar safeguards.

As our communities and legislators join forces, we are setting a new standard for ethical treatment and public protection. Ongoing collaboration has paved the way for a safer, more compassionate future for both animals and people alike.

For further information, media inquiries, or to arrange interviews with Animal Rights Initiative representatives, please contact:

Media Contact:
Amanda Fox
Animal Rights Initiative
Phone: (808)-367-5128
Email: amandafox@animalrightsinitiative.org

Animal Rights Initiative is a Washington-based nonprofit dedicated to protecting natural biodiversity and ensuring the humane treatment of all animals. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, we strive to promote policies and practices that safeguard the lives and well-being of animals in our state and beyond. Animals deserve to be free from all human exploitation, even habitat encroachment and excessive pollution.