AB 1453 Summary

• Makes it unlawful to hold orcas in captivity for any purpose including display, performance, or entertainment, with an exception for orcas already in captivity on the effective date (allowed until June 1, 2017, then only for educational presentations)

• Prohibits breeding, impregnating, or collecting genetic material from captive orcas for artificial insemination

• Prohibits exporting, transporting, or selling orcas located in California to other states or countries unless transfer is to a North America facility meeting Animal Welfare Act standards

• Exempts orcas held by bona fide educational or scientific institutions for rehabilitation after rescue/stranding or for research purposes, which must be returned to the wild when possible or used only for educational presentations

• Establishes misdemeanor penalties of up to $100,000 fine for intentional or negligent violations; bill takes effect immediately as an urgency statute