Bill > H990

This bill aims to prohibit the sale of newly farmed fur products in Massachusetts by establishing a comprehensive legal framework that defines key terms and outlines specific restrictions. The legislation defines "fur" as any animal skin with attached hair or fur fibers, and "fur product" as clothing, accessories, or decorative items made wholly or partially from fur, with some specific exceptions like leather processing and fur from certain farm animal families. The bill prohibits selling, offering, displaying, or distributing fur products sourced from animals raised on fur farms, with exemptions for used fur products, religiously used fur products, and products authorized by federal law. Violations will be enforced by the Attorney General, who can seek injunctive relief and impose civil penalties ranging from $500 to $5,000 per violation. The bill's rationale includes reducing demand for cruel products, mitigating public health risks, promoting animal welfare, and enhancing the state's reputation. The law will take effect one year after its passage, giving businesses time to adapt to the new regulations and transition away from selling newly farmed fur products.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H990