Senator Murphy Receives Humane Legislator Award For Elephant Protection Act

Albany, NY - When Senator Terrence Murphy heard how performing elephants were being hooked, stabbed or prodded into performing, he vowed to act to end their suffering - and he did. For his relentless determination and leadership in creating legislation that will end the abuse of performing elephants, Senator Murphy was presented with the 2018 Humane Legislator Award by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).
 
The award is given out by HSUS to select legislators who pursue meaningful legislation and awareness efforts related to animal issues.
 
"This award means a great deal to me because we have an obligation to speak for and protect all animals. Elephants are intelligent and intuitive. I was so moved by their plight that I became determined to see their mistreatment end," Senator Murphy. "The Elephant Protection Act safeguards all elephants from the physical and psychological harm inflicted upon them by living conditions, treatment, and cruel methods that are necessary to train elephants to perform in entertainment acts. It is encouraging to know that common sense and compassion can still take precedence over profit."
 
"The Humane Society of the United States is honored to recognize Senator Murphy for his outstanding leadership on animal protection issues in New York State," said Brian Shapiro, State Director for The HSUS. "The Elephant Protection Act, sponsored by Senator Murphy, prohibits the use of elephants in entertainment acts, including circuses, carnivals, and parades, which cause unnecessary suffering for these magnificent animals. Senator Murphy is a champion for animal protection and we are pleased to present him with the 2017 Humane Legislator Award for his dedication and commitment to this important cause."
 
The Elephant Protection Act bill prohibits the use of elephants in circuses and other entertainment venues in New York State, safeguarding all elephants from the physical and psychological harm inflicted upon them by living conditions, treatment, and cruel methods that are necessary to train elephants to perform in entertainment acts. The only exemptions to the Act include zoos, aquariums, wildlife sanctuaries and non-profit environmental education programs.
 
The Elephant Protection Act was inspired by the students at Pace University's Dyson College of Arts & Sciences Environmental Policy Clinic, who recognized the injustice being perpetrated against circus elephants and vowed to act. Working in conjunction with Senator Murphy, Assemblywoman Paulin, and Pace faculty members John Cronin and Michelle Land, the students crafted the Elephant Protection Act.
 
Senator Murphy sponsored the "Elephant Protection Act," in the Senate, advocating for its passage. The historic measure was passed by the Senate on May 23, 2017 by a unanimous vote of 62-0. The Assembly version of the bill sponsored by Assemblywoman Paulin, was passed on June 6, 2017 by a vote of 56-6. Senator Amy Paulin was also recognized by HSUS for her efforts with the Assembly. Governor Cuomo signed the bill into law on October 19, 2017.
 
The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's most effective animal protection organization. The organization provides hands-on care and services to more than 100,000 animals each year, as well as education and training for local organizations. The Humane Society is a driving transformational change in the U.S. and around the world, combating large-scale cruelties such as puppy mills, animal fighting, factory farming, seal slaughter, horse cruelty, captive hunts and the wildlife trade.