First Animal Rights State Caucus Formed

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First Animal Rights State Caucus Formed
1/28/10

Recent news from California shows how animal rights supporters are continuing to gain influence over elected officials. Several state legislators recently joined forces to create the first state based “Creature Caucuses.” These groups are meant to bring animal rights minded policymakers together in order to push legislation pleasing to groups like the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and PETA.

Officially called the “Animal Protection Caucus”, the new grouping of Golden State legislators will be co-chaired by Senators Dean Florez (D-Shafter) and Tony Strickland (R-Moorpark) along with Assembly Members Cameron Smyth (R-Santa Clarita) and Pedro Nava (D-Santa Barbara). HSUS is already singing its praises over this and plans to mark the occasion with a reception at the state capital with its president and CEO, Wayne Pacelle attending.

While California will be among the first state legislative groups specifically promoting these issues, a “Creature Caucus” already exists in Washington, D.C. to advance animal rights legislation at the national level.

“Sportsmen across the country should be aware of efforts like this in their own state,” said Evan Heusinkveld, U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance director of state services. “As always, it is essential that legislators understand that sportsmen expect them to represent the overwhelming number of citizens who do not believe in animal rights.”