Last week, Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies reformed the General Wildlife Law to prohibit the use of marine mammals in fixed or traveling shows. The legislation prevents activities that are not scientific research or for teaching, conservation and preservation, from being carried out.
It was an initiative that was considered an urgent resolution, all paperwork was dispensed with and it was immediately submitted for discussion and voting.
Generally, there were 331 votes in favor, 17 against and 125 abstentions, and specifically, 318 votes in favor, 19 against and 130 abstentions.
The new laws also prohibit the reproduction of specimens of marine mammals under management whose purpose is not reintroduction, repopulation or translocation.
The owners and possessors of marine mammals in captivity will have a maximum period of 90 calendar days, from the entry into force of the decree, to integrate and deliver an inventory of said specimens to the Ministry of Environment and Profepa.
Federal lawmakers estimated that capturing dolphins generates between $1.1 billion and $5.5 billion a year for the tourism industry, and travel agencies are an essential part of the industry with marine animals.
Source: Excelsior
