PRESS REPORTSeaWorld: 03/07/2014
Table of ContentsTV & Other Broadcast Media
ClipsPrint/Online Media ClipsComplete Articles
Television and other Broadcast Media ClipsCNN Legal View with
Ashleigh Banfield (3/7/14)Coverage on new legislation being written
to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales in the parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=100&DateTime=3/7/2014%2012:08:05%20PM&playclip=true
CNN At This Hour With Berman and Michaela (3/7/14)Coverage on
new legislation being written to stop SeaWorld from using killer
whales in the parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=100&DateTime=3/7/2014%2011:14:15%20AM&playclip=true
CNN CNN Newsroom (3/7/14)Coverage on new legislation being
written to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales in the parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=100&DateTime=3/7/2014%2010:19:02%20AM&playclip=true
CNN Early Start (3/7/14)Mention of new legislation being written
to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales in the parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=100&DateTime=3/7/2014%205:52:30%20AM&playclip=true
KDRV (ABC) NewsWatch 12 Midday (3/7/14)Coverage on new
legislation being written to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales
in the parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=5420&DateTime=3/7/2014%2011:06:56%20AM&playclip=true
KNSD-SD (NBC) NBC7 News Midday (3/7/14)Coverage on new
legislation being written to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales
in the parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=1375&DateTime=3/7/2014%2011:01:00%20AM&playclip=true
KGTV-SD (ABC) 10News Midday (3/7/14)Coverage on new legislation
being written to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales in the
parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=1370&DateTime=3/7/2014%2011:01:00%20AM&playclip=true
KGTV-SD (ABC) Good Morning America (3/7/14)Coverage on new
legislation being written to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales
in the parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=1370&DateTime=3/7/2014%207:56:38%20AM&playclip=true
KFMB-SD (CBS) CBS News 8 at 11AM (3/7/14)Coverage on new
legislation being written to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales
in the parks shows. Interview with bill
supporters.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=1385&DateTime=3/7/2014%2011:01:17%20AM&playclip=true
XETV-SD (CW) San Diego Living (3/7/14)Coverage on new
legislation being written to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales
in the parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=1380&DateTime=3/7/2014%209:29:48%20AM&playclip=true
KUSI-SD Good Morning San Diego (3/7/14)Coverage on new
legislation being written to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales
in the parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=2585&DateTime=3/7/2014%208:11:05%20AM&playclip=true
KNSD-SD (NBC) NBC7 News Today (3/7/14)Coverage on new
legislation being written to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales
in the parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=1375&DateTime=3/7/2014%205:24:16%20AM&playclip=true
KNBC-LA (NBC) Today in L.A. (3/7/14)Coverage on new legislation
being written to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales in the
parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=306&DateTime=3/7/2014%206:55:41%20AM&playclip=true
KFSN FRES (ABC) Action News Midday (3/7/14)Coverage on new
legislation being written to stop SeaWorld from using killer whales
in the parks
shows.http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=1285&DateTime=3/7/2014%2011:07:34%20AM&playclip=true
Print Media ClipsCalifornia bill would ban orca shows at
SeaWorld (CNN, 03/07/14)SeaWorlds Worst Nightmare: Calif. Lawmaker
to Propose Ban on Orcas in Captivity (Yahoo!, 03/07/14)California
bill would ban SeaWorld orca shows (USA Today, 03/07/14)Bill seeks
to ban orca shows at SeaWorld San Diego (The LA Times, 03/07/14)New
California Bill Aims To Stop SeaWorld From Making Orcas Perform
(Huffington Post, 03/07/14)Calif. bill proposed to stop orca shows
(Politico, 03/07/14)SeaWorld: California lawmaker to propose ban on
all Orcas in captivity (Examiner, 03/07/14)California bill would
ban orca shows, captive breeding (Reuters, 03/07/14)Is this the end
of Shamu? California politician proposes ban on Sea Worlds
controversial killer whale shows (Mail Online, 03/07/14)SeaWorld
Shares Take A Beating As California Considers Whale Bill (Business
Insider, 03/07/14)SeaWorld Sinks 5% on Bill to Ban California Orca
Shows (FOX Business, 03/07/14)SeaWorld San Diego killer whale shows
could end if new legislation passes (The Independent,
03/07/14)Lawmaker Wants To Ban Orcas At San Diego's SeaWorld (NPR,
03/07/14)SeaWorld: 'Our employees are the true animal advocates'
(UT San Diego, 03/07/14)Bill would ban SeaWorld orca shows (UT San
Diego, 03/06/14)Orca protection law proposed by Calif. Legislator
(CBS News, 03/07/14)
California Bill Inspired By 'Blackfish' Aims To Ban Orca Shows
At SeaWorld (LAist, 03/07/14)Assemblyman Bloom To Sea World San
Diego: Release 10 Orcas Back Into The Ocean (Santa Monica Mirror,
03/07/14)Blackfish Generates Another Bombshell: California
Assemblyman Introduces Legislation to Phase Out Orca Whale
Captivity (Seattle Pi, 03/06/14)SeaWorld: New Bill May Ban Orca
Shows After Shocking Blackfish Documentary (Hollywood Life,
03/07/14)SeaWorlds Worst Nightmare: Calif. Lawmaker to Propose Ban
on Orcas in Captivity (Take Part, 03/06/14)SeaWorld Orca Shows
Might Be Banned By This California Bill, Which is the Outcome the
Chain has Feared Since 'Blackfish' (Bustle, 03/07/14)Blackfish
Effect: SeaWorld Under Fire Again as CA Bill Proposes Ban on Whale
Shows (The Wrap, 03/07/14)Lawmaker wants to ban orca shows at
SeaWorld (KUSI News, 03/07/14)SeaWorld killer whale shows could be
banned under California bill (News 13, 03/07/14)New legislation to
be introduced for orca protection (WPTV 5, 03/07/14)Santa Monica
Lawmaker Proposes Bill to Ban Killer Whale Shows (KTLA,
03/07/14)California Bill Would Ban SeaWorld From Using Orcas In San
Diego Shows (KPBS, 03/07/14)Proposed legislation would end orca
shows at SeaWorld (CBS 8, 03/07/14)New State Legislation Could Ban
SeaWorld from using Orcas During Live Shows (San Diego 6 CW,
03/07/14)New legislation to be introduced for orca protection (RTV6
ABC, 03/07/14)Local Assemblyman Proposes Improvements To Orca
Protection Laws (LA CBS Local, 03/07/14)SeaWorld responds to
proposed orca show ban (ABC News 10, 03/07/14)Complete
ArticlesCNNCalifornia bill would ban orca shows at SeaWorldBy:
Michael Martinez03/07/14
A California state legislator is proposing to ban the captivity
of orca killer whales for entertainment at SeaWorld in the wake of
CNN's controversial documentary "Blackfish."
"Like the elephant -- the largest land mammal in captivity -- we
have realized that orcas are more complex than most other marine
mammals and require more space, have a more complex social
structure and most importantly need their family network (pod) for
a happy and healthy life," said a fact sheet by state Assemblyman
Richard Bloom, a Democrat from Santa Monica. "Orcas simply do not
belong in captivity."
Bloom was scheduled to hold a press conference Friday to
announce the legislation with "Blackfish" director Gabriela
Cowperthwaite, two former SeaWorld orca trainers and an animal
welfare activist.
A Bloom statement described the proposal as "landmark
legislation calling for comprehensive improvement to orca
protection laws in California."
Currently, there are no laws prohibiting the captive display of
orcas, but there are federal laws governing the care, capture and
research use of the killer whales, Bloom said.
The documentary, produced by Magnolia Pictures and acquired by
CNN Films, recounts the 2010 death of longtime SeaWorld trainer
Dawn Brancheau by a killer whale named Tilikum, a 12,000-pound
bull.
The film challenges the concept of keeping killer whales for
entertainment and implies Tilikum had been driven to madness by
captivity.
Since then, a fiery controversy has erupted.
SeaWorld strongly disputes the allegations that "Blackfish"
makes and called the film grossly one-sided and the product of
animal activists.
In advance of the lawmaker's press conference, San Diego-based
SeaWorld had yet to see the proposed legislation but described the
scheduled participants to join Bloom as well-known "extreme animal
rights activists, many of whom regularly campaign against SeaWorld
and other accredited marine mammal parks and institutions," said
spokeswoman Becca Bides.
"Included in the group are some of the same activists that
partnered with PETA in bringing the meritless claim that animals in
human care should be considered slaves under the 13th Amendment of
the U.S. Constitution -- a clear publicity stunt. This legislation
appears to reflect the same sort of out-of-the-mainstream
thinking," Bides said in a statement.
"We engage in business practices that are responsible,
sustainable and reflective of the balanced values all Americans
share."
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals said the proposed
legislation "has the potential to end the deep injustice of
exhibitions of captive marine life," said spokesman David W.
Perle.
"PETA and kind people around the world have called on SeaWorld
to retire these deprived orcas to a seaside sanctuary, but the park
continues to defend its overt cruelty," Perle said in a
statement.
The proposed law would end performance-based entertainment for
all killer whales in California, captive breeding programs and the
export and import of genetic material, and the import and export of
orcas within the state.
Also, the proposal would retire all captive killer whales to sea
pens if available and would allow retired orcas to be on display
but not perform. The bill would limit the amount of human
interaction for trainer safety, according to Bloom's fact
sheet.
Currently, California has 10 captive killer whales, and seven of
them were captive-born, according to Bloom.
In the past 50 years, California has lost 14 orcas, 12 of which
were caught in the wild, Bloom said.
After the tragic death of SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau, the
public has begun to question the moral justification of keeping
orcas in captivity for our general entertainment," Bloom's fact
sheet said. "As a state we should lead the way in ending captivity
for entertainment purposes and should be ensuring our current
captive population general welfare needs are taken care of, and
that we end any future captivity whether it be by capture or
captive breeding programs here in California."
http://www.cnn.com/2014/03/07/us/california-bill-orca-killer-whale-seaworld/
Yahoo!SeaWorlds Worst Nightmare: Calif. Lawmaker to Propose Ban
on Orcas in CaptivityBy: David Kirby03/07/14
In a surprising move that is sure to send shock waves across the
entire captive whale and dolphin industry, a California lawmaker
will propose legislation to outlaw Shamu shows at SeaWorld San
Diego.
State Assemblymember Richard Bloom, DSanta Monica, will
introduce Friday the Orca Welfare and Safety Act, which would make
it illegal to hold in captivity, or use, a wild-caught or
captive-bred orca for performance or entertainment purposes. The
bill would also ban artificial insemination of captive killer
whales in California and block the import of orcas or orca semen
from other states.
Violators would face a fine up to $100,000 and/or six months in
a county jail.
There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes, Bloom declared in a written
statement prior to a press conference to be held at the Santa
Monica Pier. These beautiful creatures are much too large and far
too intelligent to be confined in small, concrete pens for their
entire lives. It is time to end the practice of keeping orcas
captive for human amusement.
According to Bloom, the law would be the most comprehensive
protection law for captive orcas in the United States in over 40
years.
Under the terms of the bill, all 10 orcas held in tanks at
SeaWorld San Diego, the only California facility that has whales,
shall be rehabilitated and returned to the wild where possible. If
that is not possible, then the whales must be transferred and held
in a sea pen that is open to the public and not used for
performance or entertainment purposes.
Exempt from the legislation are any orcas held for
rehabilitation after a rescue or stranding, or for research
purposes. But even these animals would have to be returned to the
ocean or sent to a sea pen.
It is not the first time state lawmakers have tried to outlaw
the captivity of killer whales, the worlds largest dolphin. South
Carolina passed a bill in 1992 against captivity for dolphins and
porpoises following efforts by the South Carolina Humane Society to
stop a proposed dolphin park in Myrtle Beach. Just last month, New
York state Sen. Greg Ball, R-Carmel, introduced a bill to ban orca
captivity in that state.
Of course, there are no captive orcas in South Carolina or New
York, making the California bill far more than a symbolic
gesture.
At least five countriesIndia, Croatia, Hungary, Chile, and Costa
Ricahave also outlawed all cetacean captivity, while Switzerland
has banned captivity for dolphins.
Dr. Naomi Rose, marine mammal scientist at the Animal Welfare
Institute, said the bill was inspired by the orcas-in-captivity
documentary Blackfish.
The Blackfish effect has never been in greater
evidenceeverything has led to this, the first serious legislative
proposal to prohibit the captive display of this highly intelligent
and social species, Rose wrote in an email. SeaWorld should join
with this effort rather than continue to fight it. They can be on
the right side of history.
Assemblymember Bloom reached out to Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the
director of Blackfish, for help with the bill, who in turn
consulted with Rose.
We did not initiate this proposal, Rose wrote. But once they
reached out to us, we dove in wholeheartedly and assisted in every
way we couldhelping with the bill language, information, and
fact-gathering, and getting support from various sectors of the
public, including the scientific community.
Rose also gave credit to former SeaWorld trainers featured in
the documentary for supporting the legislation. Rose,
Cowperthwaite, and former SeaWorld trainers Carol Ray and John
Hargrove were scheduled to appear with Bloom at the Friday press
conference.
Should the bill become law, SeaWorld might want to look at other
highly successful aquariums that do not keep cetaceans in swimming
pools. The Monterey Aquarium in northern California, for example,
is routinely packed with visitors, without a single whale or
dolphin in sight.
In South Carolina, where orcas will likely never entertain
people, staffers at the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston
routinely direct visitors to local waterways if they want to see
dolphins.
The Charleston Post and Courier reported in 2010 that when
tourists ask to see the dolphins at the aquarium, the facilitys
CEO, Kevin Mills, smiles and answers, Just walk out on our
observation deck and you're bound to see them, swimming freely in
the harbor.
http://news.yahoo.com/seaworld-worst-nightmare-calif-lawmaker-propose-ban-orcas-031714726.html
USA TodayCalifornia bill would ban SeaWorld orca showsBy: Paul
Janes03/07/14
A documentary that claims to expose the treatment of orcas and
problems with trainer safety at SeaWorld has spurred action from a
California state lawmaker.
Assemblyman Richard Bloom, D-Santa Monica, has proposed
legislation banning the use of orcas for performance purposes at
California aquatic theme parks as a result of details revealed in
the movie Blackfish.
The film, which has drawn global attention since its 2013
premiere, chronicles the 2010 death of SeaWorld trainer Dawn
Brancheau, who was pulled into a pool and drowned by an orca at the
chain's Orlando, Fla., park. SeaWorld has a park in San Diego.
According to a report from the San Diego Union-Tribune, the
legislation would end the use of performing orcas in theme shows,
ban captive breeding, and prohibit the import and export of the
whales. Parks would still be permitted to put orcas on display in
aquarium-like settings, but not to use them for performance or
entertainment purposes.
In a written statement, SeaWorld spokesman David Koontz
criticized Bloom for associating with "extreme animal rights
activists, many of whom regularly campaign against SeaWorld and
other accredited marine mammal parks and institutions."
Koontz also wrote, "Included in the group are some of the same
activists that partnered with PETA in bringing the meritless claim
that animals in human care should be considered slaves under the
13th amendment of the US Constitution a clear publicity stunt. This
legislation appears to reflect the same sort of
out-of-the-mainstream thinking. SeaWorld, one of the world's most
respected zoological institutions, already operates under multiple
federal, state and local animal welfare laws.
"We engage in business practices that are responsible,
sustainable and reflective of the balanced values all Americans
share," Koontz continued.
Bloom's office has not responded as of Friday to a request for
comment.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2014/03/07/san-diego-seaworld-orca-shows/6162331/The
LA TimesBill seeks to ban orca shows at SeaWorld San DiegoBy: Tony
Perry03/07/14
A state legislator from Santa Monica is introducing a bill that
would prohibit orca shows at SeaWorld in San Diego.
The bill by Assemblyman Richard Hershel Bloom, a Democrat, would
make it illegal to use orcas "for performance or entertainment
purposes." It would also ban captive breeding done at SeaWorld of
orcas, also known as killer whales.
The bill is supported by People for the Ethical Treatment of
Animals and is prompted by the documentary "Blackfish," which was
highly critical of the use of orcas at SeaWorld parks and centered
on the death of a trainer at the park in Orlando, Fla.
As state legislation, the bill would only apply to the San Diego
park, the only park in the state with orca shows.
"These beautiful creatures are much too large and intelligent to
be confined in small, concrete pens for their entire lives," Bloom
said in a statement.
In a statement issued by SeaWorld, the park said the bill
appears "to reflect the same sort of out-of-the-mainstream
thinking" of activists who went to court in San Diego in an
unsuccessful bid to have the orcas declared slaves under the U.S.
Constitution's 13th Amendment.
SeaWorld is "one of the world's most respected zoological
institutions [and] already operates under multiple federal, state
and local animal welfare laws," the statement said.
The bill will most likely be opposed by some legislators and
other officials with districts in San Diego, where SeaWorld is a
major tourist attraction and economic driver for the region's
economy.SeaWorld is in the district of Assemblywoman Toni Atkins
(D-San Diego).
Bloom, a former mayor of Santa Monica, is in his first term
representing a district that includes much of West Los Angeles and
Hollywood.
http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-bill-orca-shows-20140307,0,2766388.story#ixzz2vJUKrEJp
Huffington PostNew California Bill Aims To Stop SeaWorld From
Making Orcas PerformBy: Tyler McCarthy03/07/14
A lawmaker in California has proposed a bill that would outlaw
San Diegos SeaWorld park from breeding orcas in captivity and would
ban the import and export of the animals for performance
purposes.
Democratic State Assemblyman Richard Bloom planned to introduce
the Orca Welfare and Safety Act at an event Friday in Santa Monica.
Politico reports the gathering will be attended by the director of
Blackfish, the controversial 2013 documentary that alleged
mistreatment of orcas at SeaWorld and examined the death of a
SeaWorld trainer who worked with killer whales.
There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes, Bloom said in a statement
released before the unveiling event. These beautiful creatures are
much too large and far too intelligent to be confined in small,
concrete tanks for their entire lives.
According to UT San Diego, the bill has three goals. First, it
seeks to end the practice of making orcas perform in shows. It also
seeks to ban captive breeding. Finally, the legislation hopes to
prohibit the import and export of killer whales across state lines.
The ban would apply to any establishment in California, though
SeaWorld in San Diego is the only such establishment in the state,
according to CBS8 in San Diego.
UT San Diego also writes that the park would not have to free
the whales that it already has in captivity, but those animals
would not have to perform anymore. They would be "retired" and kept
in water enclosures anchored to the sea floor. They would still be
on display for people to go see.
While we cannot comment on Assemblyman Blooms proposed
legislation until we see it, the individuals he has chosen to
associate with for todays press conference are well known extreme
animal rights activists, many of whom regularly campaign against
SeaWorld and other accredited marine mammal parks and institutions,
SeaWorld said in a statement, per UT San Diego.
The park has routinely denied the claims made by the Blackfish
film and many other animal rights groups.
Bloom was not immediately available to comment on the
legislation, which is scheduled to be unveiled at an event later
today.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/03/07/ban-performing-seaworld-orcas_n_4920661.htmlPoliticoCalif.
bill proposed to stop orca showsBy: Natalie Villcorta03/07/2014
California state lawmaker has proposed legislation that would
prohibit San Diegos Sea World from featuring killer whales in
entertainment performances.
The bill, released Friday, would also ban captive breeding and
the import and export of orcas, according to Richard Bloom, a
Democrat from Santa Monica, said he was inspired by the
controversial documentary Blackfish, which premiered at the 2013
Sundance Film Festival and was aired on CNN last fall. The film
explores the history of orcas in captivity and the 2010 death of a
Sea World trainer.
There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes, Bloom said in prepared remarks
for an event unveiling the bill Friday. These beautiful creatures
are much too large and far too intelligent to be confined in small,
concrete tanks for their entire lives.
The bill would allow retired orcas to be on display, just not to
be used for entertainment purposes, defined as any routinely
scheduled public exhibition that is characterized by music or other
sound effects, choreographed display or training for that display,
or unprotected contact between humans and orcas.
When possible, current captive orcas would be retired to sea
pens.
The bill needs a simple majority to pass, but that might be
difficult, according to U-T San Diego.
Since the release of Blackfish, Sea World has been boycotted by
notable musicians, including Willie Nelson and the Bare Naked
Ladies, according to U-T San Diego. Sea World contends that many
aspects of the film are false and misleading.
http://www.politico.com/story/2014/03/calif-bill-proposed-to-stop-orca-shows-104416.html#ixzz2vIjJgJg2
ExaminerSeaWorld: California lawmaker to propose ban on all
Orcas in captivityBy: Danny Cox03/07/14
SeaWorld could honestly be looking at their worst nightmare as a
California lawmaker is going to propose a legislation that will
outlaw Shamu shows and end orcas in captivity. CBS 8 reported on
March 7, 2014, that this could bring an end to the main focus of
SeaWorld's reputation that began long ago.
State Assembly member Richard Bloom, D-Santa Monica, is
introducing the Orca Welfare and Safety Act on Friday. This act
would in turn make it illegal to "hold in captivity, or use, a
wild-caught or captive-bred orca for performance or entertainment
purposes."
The bill would also ban SeaWorld, or anyone, from performing
artificial insemination of captive killer whales in California.
This would then also block the import of orcas and orca semen from
other states.
The proposed law would give violators a fine of up to $100,000
and/or six months stay in a county jail.
There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes, Bloom declared in a written
statement prior to a press conference to be held at the Santa
Monica Pier. These beautiful creatures are much too large and far
too intelligent to be confined in small, concrete pens for their
entire lives. It is time to end the practice of keeping orcas
captive for human amusement.
For the orcas already in captivity at SeaWorld, the legislation
would require the park to actually have the killer whales "retire."
The orcas could be on display for visitors to view, but the act
would not allow them to actually perform.
SeaWorld is already dealing with a great number of problems and
controversy due to the "Blackfish" documentary, but this could
bring about such a greater issue.
Some other political figures have already spoken up and said
they are preparing to vote "yes" on the bill put forward by Bloom.
Lorena Gonzales of San Diego is one of them, and stated on Facebook
that she wants a lot of changes at the theme park.
"SeaWorld's reputation of treating its workers poorly dates back
to its opening 50 years ago. It's about time we continue this
conversation about job quality and workplace safety at Sea World
whether it involves groundskeepers, concessions workers or killer
whale trainers. Recent evidence suggests its record with orcas
isn't much better. I'm looking forward to having an honest
conversation about Sea World's business practices and how they can
really be an icon that makes San Diego proud."
The new bill would need a simple majority to pass, but SeaWorld
would not be in trouble just by that. To be completely put in
place, a lot more would have to happen, but Bloom is making sure
that things get started.
http://www.examiner.com/article/seaworld-california-lawmaker-to-propose-ban-on-all-orcas-captivityReutersCalifornia
bill would ban orca shows, captive breedingBy: Dana
Feldman03/07/14SANTA MONICA, Calif., March 7 (Reuters) - The
SeaWorld San Diego marine theme park would be required to end its
popular live performances of killer whales under legislation
proposed on Friday, which would also ban captive breeding, imports
and exports of orcas in California.The measure was introduced by
state Assemblyman Richard Bloom, who said his interest in the issue
was sparked by last year's documentary "Blackfish," which deals
with the treatment of killer whales at SeaWorld parks.The film,
which SeaWorld described as distorted animal rights propaganda,
explores circumstances leading to the 2010 incident in which a top
SeaWorld trainer was killed by an orca with whom she worked and
performed in Florida.The film concludes that keeping killer whales
penned up in captivity is inherently cruel and that SeaWorld has
persisted in the practice because orcas are the primary attraction
in the highly lucrative theme park business."There is no
justification for the continued display of orcas for entertainment
purposes," Bloom said in remarks prepared for the bill's unveiling.
"These beautiful creatures are much too large and far too
intelligent to be confined in small, concrete tanks for their
entire lives."SeaWorld, which also operates marine parks in
Orlando, Florida, and San Antonio, Texas, declined to comment on
Bloom's legislation before reviewing it.But the company said the
individuals "he has chosen to associate with for today's press
conference are well-known extreme animal rights activists, many of
whom regularly campaign against SeaWorld and other accredited
marine mammal parks and institutions."Joining Bloom at a news
conference announcing his bill were Naomi Rose, a marine mammal
biologist with the Washington, D.C.-based Animal Welfare Institute,
Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the director of "Blackfish," and two former
trainers.SeaWorld San Diego is home to 10 killer whales, seven of
which were born in captivity. It is the only facility in California
with orcas on display and thus the only one immediately affected by
Bloom's bill.SeaWorld has denied mistreating any killer whales and
points to its involvement in marine mammal research, conservation,
rescue and public education.While the precise language has not been
finalized, the legislation is expected to allow the continued
display of the whales in a large tank in San Diego, said Sean
MacNeil, chief of staff for Bloom. (Writing and additional
reporting by Steve Gorman; editing by Gunna
Dickson).http://www.trust.org/item/20140307220438-44x3j
Mail OnlineIs this the end of Shamu? California politician
proposes ban on Sea Worlds controversial killer whale showsBy:
Lizzie Parry03/07/14
A controversial new bill proposed by a Californian politician
could mark the end of popular Shamu shows at SeaWorld.
If passed, the bill would be the most comprehensive protection
law for orcas held in captive, in the U.S. for more than 40 years,
according to the man behind the proposed legislation.
State Assembly member Richard Bloom, will introduce the Orca
Welfare and Safety Act today.
The bill would make it illegal to 'hold in captivity, or use, a
wild-caught or captive-bred orca for performance or entertainment
purposes'.
The proposed bill would also ban the artificial insemination of
captive killer whales in the state of California and block the
import of orcas or orca semen from other states.
Under the rules, those violating such a law, would face a fine
of up to $100,000 and/or six months in prison.
In a written statement Mr Bloom said: 'There is no justification
for the continued captive display of orcas for entertainment
purposes.
'These beautiful creatures are much too large and far too
intelligent to be confined in small, concrete pens for their entire
lives. It is time to end the practice of keeping orcas captive for
human amusement.'
He said under the terms of the bill, the 10 orcas in captive at
SeaWorld in San Diego, would be 'rehabilitated and returned to the
wild where possible'.
Where that is not possible, the whales should be kept in a sea
pen, that is open to the public but not used for entertainment
purposes, Mr Bloom said.
Under the terms of the bill orcas held for rehabilitation after
being rescued or stranded, or for research purposes, would be
exempt from the conditions but would be kept in a sea pen.
In 1992 South Carolina passed a bill to outlaw the captivity of
killer whales, dolphins and porpoises, to stop a proposed dolphin
park from opening in the state.
Last month New York state senator Greg Ball introduced a bill to
ban orca captivity.
Countries including India, Croatia, Hungary, Chile and Costa
Rica, have outlawed the captivity of all dolphins, whales and
porpoises.
Dr Naomi Rose, marine mammal scientist at the Animal Welfare
Institute, said the bill was inspired by the orcas-in-captivity
documentary Blackfish.
'The Blackfish effect has never been in greater
evidenceeverything has led to this, the first serious legislative
proposal to prohibit the captive display of this highly intelligent
and social species,' Dr Rose told Take Part.
'SeaWorld should join with this effort rather than continue to
fight it. They can be on the right side of history.'
Mr Bloom asked Dr Rose and her team at Blackfish to help with
the bill.
Dr Rose said while they did not initiate the proposal they
helped in anyway they could, with bill language, information and
gathering facts, as well as getting support from the public and
scientific community.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2575708/Is-end-Shamu-California-politician-proposes-ban-Sea-Worlds-controversial-killer-whale-shows.html#ixzz2vJFwmbj8Business
InsiderSeaWorld Shares Take A Beating As California Considers Whale
BillBy: Mamta Badkar03/07/14
SeaWorld Entertainment is down 5.4% to $33.2.
The stock was down as much as 7.4%, but is now paring some of
its losses.
This comes on the back of reports that California assemblyman
Richard Bloom is introducing legislation to phase out captivity of
whales and dolphins, according to Candace Calloway Whiting at
Seattlepi.com. And remember, SeaWorld has a location in San
Diego.
From Whiting:
"If the bill passes into law, it will allow for the gradual
transition of Orca confinement from entertainment purposes to
solely keeping Orcas captive for research, rescue, and
rehabilitation. It would prevent the breeding of captive animals,
and require that those animals maintained in captivity either be
released to the wild or be kept in sea pens, which are defined as
open water enclosures, anchored to the seafloor and the shoreline.
The sea pens must be accessible to the public, but shows and
entertainment are not allowed."
Bloom is expected to hold a press conference today.
SeaWorld has had a ton of bad publicity after the release of the
damning documentary Blackfish last year.
The stock however is up 15.6% year-to-date, but down 0.6% since
it went public last year.
This five-day chart shows today's sell-off:
(chart)
http://www.businessinsider.com/seaworld-is-taking-a-beating-2014-3#ixzz2vJTdk6bVFOX
BusinessSeaWorld Sinks 5% on Bill to Ban California Orca ShowsBy:
Matt Egan03/07/14
Shares of SeaWorld (SEAS) sank as much as 7% on Friday amid
concerns about proposed legislation that would prohibit the theme
park from using orcas in its San Diego shows.
The proposed law out of California was inspired by the
documentary Blackfish, which raised concerns about unsafe working
conditions for trainers working with SeaWorld orcas.
A spokesperson for California State Assemblyman Richard Bloom,
D-Santa Monica, confirmed the lawmaker is set to introduce
legislation that would make it illegal to hold in captivity, or
use, a wild-caught or captive-bred orca for performance or
entertainment purposes.
The proposed legislation would not ban orcas entirely, the Bloom
spokesperson said. Published reports indicate the law would allow
parks to put orcas on exhibit in aquarium settings, but not for
performance or entertainment purposes.
Assembly member Bloom is introducing legislation that will
improve the welfare of captive orcas and ensure trainer and handler
safety, the spokesperson said.
SeaWorld did not respond to a request for comment on the
proposed legislation, which threatens to eat into the companys
California ticket sales.
After closing at $35.11 on Thursday, shares of Orlando-based
SeaWorld dropped as low as $32.52 on Friday. SeaWorld was recently
trading down 5.23% to $33.27.
FOX Business has previously reported on the host of problems
facing SeaWorld not only with its business model but concerning the
companys earnings disclosures as well.
The Blackfish documentary showed how people had been killed or
injured by SeaWorlds whales, including trainer Dawn Brancheau, who
was killed at the companys Orlando park in February 2010.
The Department of Labors Occupational Safety & Health
Administration ordered SeaWorld to keep workers protected from
orcas by distance or barriers in the water or on land. SeaWorld is
fighting the OSHA ban in court.
SeaWorld has pushed back against Blackfish, which premiered at
the 2013 Sundance Film Festival and more recently aired on Time
Warners (TWX) CNN. The company has said the documentary and other
attacks are slanted and unfair and also leave out the educational
value of its work.
SeaWorld was acquired by Blackstone (BX) in 2009 and then went
public in 2013 for $2.3 billion.
In addition to a park in San Diego, the company owns SeaWorld
parks in Florida and Texas. SeaWorld also operates Busch Gardens
theme parks in Virginia and Florida.
http://www.foxbusiness.com/industries/2014/03/07/seaworld-sinks-5-on-bill-to-ban-california-orca-shows/The
IndependentSeaWorld San Diego killer whale shows could end if new
legislation passesBy: Kashmira Gander03/07/2014
A US lawmaker in California has proposed legislation to stop
killer whales performing at shows in the popular marine mammal park
SeaWorld, in San Diego.
More than 4 million people each year visit the attraction, which
has come under scrutiny following the release of the 2013
documentary Blackfish.
Assemblyman Richard Bloom said his decision was influenced by
allegations made in the film.
Blackfish drew attention to how killer whales, or orcas, are
treated at SeaWorld, where they are trained to perform tricks in
live shows.
It also claimed that SeaWorld employees are not safe, and
focused on trainer Dawn Brancheau, who died in Orlando,
Florida.
During the incident in 2010, she was allegedly pulled into the
pool by an orca called Tilikum and subsequently drowned.
Following Ms. Brancheaus death, the US Occupational Safety and
Health Administration imposed rules restricting trainers from being
in the water with the whales during public performances.
"There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes, said Mr. Bloom in remarks
prepared for the bill's release Friday, U-T San Diego reported.
These beautiful creatures are much too large and far too
intelligent to be confined in small, concrete tanks for their
entire lives.
In their natural habitat, orcas are family-oriented, highly
adaptable, socially complex with cultural traditions and [are
among] the most intelligent creatures on this planet," he said.
If we truly want to help orca conservation, we should focus our
efforts on restoring habitat in the wild and protecting our oceans,
Mr. Bloom added.
Mr. Bloom aims to end themed shows, prohibit captive breeding,
and ban the import and export of the animals.
While exhibiting whales in aquarium-like displays would be
allowed, the animals would no longer be made to perform and
entertain.
The legislation, scheduled to be unveiled at an event attended
by Blackfish director Gabriela Cowperthwaite, would cover all
animal water parks in California, of which SeaWorld is currently
the only one.
SeaWorld spokesman Dave Koontz said the company has not seen the
legislation and could not comment, the newspaper reported.
In a statement responding to Blackfish, SeaWorld said the
documentary distorted how the whales are treated and falsely
accuses officials at the park of attempting to cover up the facts
surrounding the tragic death of Brancheau.
It added that the film is emotionally manipulative, and relied
on information from former SeaWorld employees with little
experience with killer whales.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/seaworld-san-diego-killer-whale-shows-could-end-if-new-legislation-passes-9177238.htmlNPRLawmaker
Wants To Ban Orcas At San Diego's SeaWorldBy: Scott
Neuman03/07/14
A California lawmaker has proposed a measure that would prohibit
SeaWorld San Diego from using orcas in its shows.
Richard Bloom, a Santa Monica Democrat, says the documentary
Blackfish, which examines the 2010 death of a SeaWorld trainer by a
captive orca, inspired him to push the bill.
Blackfish, which premiered at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival,
also highlights other incidents in which trainers were either hurt
or had close calls with orcas, also known as killer whales.
Filmmakers also detail what they say are cramped living conditions
for the marine mammals, which are the centerpiece of SeaWorld's
acrobatic shows.
"There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes," Bloom said Friday. "These
beautiful creatures are much too large and far too intelligent to
be confined in small, concrete tanks for their entire lives."
SeaWorld Entertainment, the parent company that also runs parks
in Orlando, Fla., and San Antonio, Texas, has called Blackfish
"propaganda," saying "the film conveys falsehoods, manipulates
viewers emotionally, and relies on questionable filmmaking
techniques to create 'facts' that support its point of view." The
company says Blackfish gives the false impression that conditions
at the parks are harmful to whales and trainers and that SeaWorld
has covered up information related to fatal 2010 training
mishaps.
The New York Times reported last month that:
"Blackfish has become a rallying point for those who oppose the
use of killer whales for entertainment in the SeaWorld parks, and
it has drawn large audiences in theaters and on TV. But SeaWorld
has defended its practices, mounting an aggressive pushback against
the film."
"The company continued its counterattack with a complaint
delivered ... to the Labor Department. It accuses the official
examining an orca's 2010 fatal attack on a SeaWorld trainer of
ethical violations, including leaking confidential documents to the
makers of Blackfish."
On Monday, The Associated Press said that the film's director,
Gabriela Cowperthwaite, issued a statement to the news agency
denying that the Labor Department investigator ever provided
information related to the investigation.
http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2014/03/07/287330868/lawmaker-wants-to-ban-orcas-at-san-diegos-seaworld
UT San DiegoSeaWorld: 'Our employees are the true animal
advocates'By: Michael Gardner03/07/2014
Here is SeaWorlds response to the introduction of legislation
that would ban Orca shows
While we cannot comment on Assemblyman Blooms proposed
legislation until we see it, the individuals he has chosen to
associate with for todays press conference are well known extreme
animal rights activists, many of whom regularly campaign against
SeaWorld and other accredited marine mammal parks and
institutions.
Bill would ban SeaWorld orca shows
Included in the group are some of the same activists that
partnered with PETA in bringing the meritless claim that animals in
human care should be considered slaves under the 13th amendment of
the U.S. Constitution a clear publicity stunt. This legislation
appears to reflect the same sort of out-of-the-mainstream
thinking.
SeaWorld, one of the worlds most respected zoological
institutions, already operates under multiple federal, state and
local animal welfare laws.
In addition to being one of the most respected members of the
business community, SeaWorld also is a global leader in the
zoological and animal welfare world. We are deeply committed to the
health and well-being of all of our animals and killer whales are
no exception.
Our passionate employees are the true animal advocates the
pioneering scientists, researchers, veterinarians, trainers, marine
biologists, educators, aquarists, aviculturists and
conservationists who for 50 years have cared for the animals at
SeaWorld and also saved thousands in the wild that are injured, ill
or orphaned.
We engage in business practices that are responsible,
sustainable and reflective of the balanced values all Americans
share.
http://m.utsandiego.com/news/2014/mar/07/seaworld-our-passionate-employees-are-the-true/
UT San DiegoBill would ban SeaWorld orca showsBy: Michael
Gardner03/06/2014
A state lawmaker has proposed legislation that would prohibit
SeaWorld from using orcas in its San Diego shows, saying he is
being driven to act by revelations in the disputed documentary
Blackfish.
The film, which premiered at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival and
was later aired by CNN to mass television audiences in October, has
drawn worldwide attention to how SeaWorld treats killer whales and
alleged trainer safety shortcomings at the parks. The film explores
the 2010 death of Dawn Brancheau, a trainer at the Orlando, Fla.
park, who was pulled into the pool by the orca Tilikum and
drowned.
SeaWorld has been aggressively fighting back, issuing statements
blasting the film as propaganda.
There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes, Assemblyman Richard Bloom,
D-Santa Monica, said in remarks prepared for the bill's release
Friday. These beautiful creatures are much too large and far too
intelligent to be confined in small, concrete tanks for their
entire lives.
The legislation has three central objectives: end the use of
performing orcas in theme shows, ban captive breeding and prohibit
the import and export of the so-called killer whales. The park
would still be allowed to put whales on exhibit in settings similar
to aquariums, but not used for performance or entertainment
purposes. The legislation would apply to any park in California
that provides such entertainment, but SeaWorld currently is the
only one.
The current shows still feature acrobatics, but a judge has
ruled that trainers cannot be in the water with the orcas.
SeaWorld spokesman Dave Koontz said the company has not seen the
legislation and could not comment.
The bill could face a rocky path to passage.
SeaWorld is a popular attraction in San Diego, drawing about 4.4
million visitors from across the globe, creating up to 4,000 jobs
during the peak summer season and pumping millions of dollars into
the economy. The city of San Diego, which nets a minimum $9.6
million in annual rent for the 190 acres leased by the park, may be
drawn into the fight as well.
The bills introduction could put election-year pressure on
Democrats in the San Diego delegation, notably incoming Assembly
Speaker Toni Atkins. SeaWorld is in her district.
Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez, D-San Diego, said on Twitter
Thursday night that she is a likely yes vote on the bill.
SeaWorlds reputation of treating its workers poorly dates back
to its opening 50 years ago, she expounded in a Facebook post. Its
about time we continue this conversation about job quality and
workplace safety at SeaWorld whether it involves groundskeepers,
concessions workers or killer whale trainers. Recent evidence
suggests its record with orcas isnt much better. Im looking forward
to having an honest conversation about SeaWorlds business practices
and how they can really be an icon that makes San Diego proud.
The measure needs a simple majority to pass the Legislature, but
that could be a challenge. In recent years, animal-rights
supporters struggled, but eventually won, high-profile battles to
crack down on the shark fin trade, ban using hounds to hunt bears
and phase out the use of lead bullets in hunting statewide.
Bloom is scheduled to unveil details of his bill at a Santa
Monica event attended by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the movies
director; Naomi Rose, a marine mammal scientist with the Animal
Welfare Institute and two former SeaWorld trainers.
Bloom is expected to focus on some of the orcas living
conditions, which he says include being separated from their young,
living in pods not made up of family members and spending their
lives confined in concrete tanks.
In their natural habitat, orcas are family-oriented, highly
adaptable, socially complex with cultural traditions and (are
among) the most intelligent creatures on this planet," he said in
the prepared remarks.
If we truly want to help orca conservation, we should focus our
efforts on restoring habitat in the wild and protecting our oceans,
Bloom added.
The legislation describes entertainment purposes as any
routinely scheduled public exhibition that is characterized by
music or other sound effects, choreographed display or training for
that display, or unprotected contact between humans and orcas.
The measure describes unprotected contact as that which occurs
in the absence of a protective barrier or distance between the
trainer and orca.
The orcas, when possible, would have to be retired to a sea pen,
which the bill characterizes as an in-water enclosure that is
anchored to the sea floor and attached to the floor.
Since the release of Blackfish, SeaWorld in Orlando has been
boycotted by well-known musicians, including Willie Nelson, the
Barenaked Ladies, Cheap Trick and Heart. Critics have called on
visitors to stay away from the park in San Diego in protest.
SeaWorld says the documentary distorts how the whales are
treated and falsely accuses officials at the park of attempting to
cover up the facts surrounding the tragic death of Brancheau.
SeaWorld issued an open letter that contends Blackfish:
Employs false and emotionally manipulative sequences.
Relies on former SeaWorld employees, most of whom have little
experience with killer whales and others who havent worked at
SeaWorld in nearly 20 years.
Relies on animal-rights activists masquerading as
scientists.
SeaWorld has outside defenders, including some former trainers
like Kyle Kittleson.
I say, as someone who has worked with animals, I can assure you
that they are in the best of hands, Kittleson told NPR in January.
There is no harm being done to them. There is only the best
possible care being provided for them.
Cowperthwaite, the films director, insists she was not out to
sabotage SeaWorlds shows.
I thought I was going to make a film about trainers and their
relationships with the animals, Cowperthwaite told students at
Point Loma High School last month. I peeled back the onion, and I
was shocked.
Marilee Menard, former executive director of the Alliance of
Marine Parks and Aquariums, wrote a commentary for CNN criticizing
the films portrayal of the industry. Blackfish ignores the essence
of parks and aquariums their dedication to wildlife research,
conservation, education and rescue of stranded marine mammals, she
wrote.
Her opinion piece continued, Conservation scientists and
wildlife researchers need marine parks and aquariums to learn how
to better save animals in the wild. There is not a single mention
of this in Blackfish.
According to Assemblyman Bloom, there are 10 captive orcas in
California; three of which were born in the wild.
The reach of the legislation is limited to California. It would
not change SeaWorld parks in other parts of the country. The San
Diego park is owned by Orlando-based SeaWorld and Parks
Entertainment, which operates a number of attractions across the
country.
No hearing date for Assembly Bill 2140 has been set. Gov. Jerry
Brown generally does not take a position on legislation until it
reaches his desk.
The controversy has erupted just before the 50th birthday
celebration for SeaWorld, which opened in Mission Bay in March
1964.
A ruling could be issued any day in response to SeaWorld
Entertainments appeal of the U.S. Labor Departments earlier
citations for safety violations in connection with the drowning of
Brancheau in Florida.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration fined SeaWorld
and issued three safety violations, the most serious of which
accused the park of exposing its employees to the possibility of
being struck or drowned by killer whales. A judge later ruled that
animal trainers be physically separated from the killer whales
during performances.
Orcas, a contrast of black and white, can live as long as 80
years, can grow to 32 feet long and weigh up to six tons. Often
called killer whales, Blackfish is a less-common name.
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/Mar/06/bill-would-ban-seaworld-orca-performances-a/3/?#article-copyCBS
NewsOrca protection law proposed by Calif. LegislatorBy: StaffMarch
7, 2014SANTA MONICA -- A local assemblyman Friday announced
legislation calling for comprehensive improvements to orca
protection laws in the state, CBS Los Angeles reports.The Orca
Welfare and Safety Act would make it illegal to "hold in captivity,
or use, a wild-caught or captive-bred orca for performance or
entertainment purposes," according to PETA.According to U-T San
Diego, Bloom was driven by animal abuse allegations made in the
controversial documentary "Blackfish." The film explores the 2010
death of trainer Dawn Brancheau, who was drowned by an orca, at
SeaWorld Orlando. Following the incident, trainers were banned from
being in the water with the whales.Richard Bloom chairs the
Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Natural Resources and
Transportation. He represents California's 50th Assembly District,
which comprises the communities of Agoura Hills, Bel Air, Beverly
Hills, Brentwood, Hollywood, Malibu, Pacifica Palisades, Santa
Monica, Topanga, West Hollywood, and West Los
Angeles.http://www.cbsnews.com/news/improvements-to-orca-protection-laws-sought-in-calif/LAistCalifornia
Bill Inspired By 'Blackfish' Aims To Ban Orca Shows At SeaWorldBy:
Jean Trinh03/07/14A Santa Monica lawmaker who was moved by the
documentary Blackfish proposed a bill today to ban orca shows at
SeaWorld.Assemblyman Richard Bloom held a press conference today at
the Santa Monica Pier on what he called a "landmark legislation
calling for comprehensive improvement to orca protection laws in
California," according to his statement (via CNN). He said that
there currently aren't any laws protecting orcas (also known as
killer whales) from being held captive and put on display; however,
there are federal laws in place that dictate how these animals are
to be caught, treated and cared for."There is no justification for
the continued captive display of orcas for entertainment purposes,"
Bloom said, reported NPR. "These beautiful creatures are much too
large and far too intelligent to be confined in small, concrete
tanks for their entire lives."If passed, the bill would also end
all orca captivity breeding, as well as importing and exporting
them in California, according to CNN. The captive killer whales
would be moved to sea pens and only retired orcas could be put on
displaybut not forced to performJoining Bloom at the press
conference were Blackfish director Gabriela Cowperthwaite and two
former SeaWorld orca trainers, John Hargrove and Carol Ray,
reported NBC Los Angeles. Criticism against SeaWorld's treatment of
orcas has ramped up ever since Blackfish was released last year.
The documentary makes the argument that killer whales are extremely
intelligent and shouldn't be held in captivity and forced to do
shows. The film even inspired Rose McCoy, a 12-year-old girl, to
protest against the SeaWorld floats at the Macy's Parade and Rose
Parade.SeaWorld responded to the bill's proposal with a statement
today, according to NBC Los Angeles: "SeaWorld is a global leader
in the zoological and animal welfare world. We are deeply committed
to the health and well-being of all our animals and killer whales
are no
exception."http://laist.com/2014/03/07/bill_inspired_by_blackfish_could_ba.php
Santa Monica MirrorAssemblyman Bloom To Sea World San Diego:
Release 10 Orcas Back Into The OceanBy: Brenton Garen03/07/14
Assemblymember Richard Bloom (Dem-50th District) will speak
about his proposed legislation that would effectively end Shamu
shows at Sea World San Diego and force the theme park to release
its 10 orcas back into the ocean.
Bloom will speak about his proposed Landmark Orca Welfare &
Safety Act at 11:30 am today on the Santa Monica Pier.
He will be joined by Blackfish director Gabriela Cowperthwaite,
two former Sea World orca trainers, and Naomi Rose, Ph.D., a Marine
Mammal Scientist from the Animal Welfare Institute.
Blooms legislation calls for comprehensive improvements to orca
protection laws in California.
"These beautiful creatures are much too large and too
intelligent to be confined in small, concrete pens for their entire
lives, Bloom said in a statement. It is time to end the practice of
keeping orcas captive for human amusement.
The original Shamu show began at Sea World San Diego in the
1960s.
Bloom was inspired by Blackfish, a documentary that tells the
story of a Sea World trainer who died in 2010 when she was grabbed
and pulled under water by a killer whale. The documentary claims
orcas at theme parks suffer from boredom, stress, and possibly
psychosis.
Blooms bill, if it were to pass, would make it against the law
to keep a killer whale in captivity for performance or
entertainment purposes. It would also require that Sea World San
Diego release its 10 killer whales back to the ocean.
Sea World has previously defended itself saying that letting
people see the killer whales up close is educational and helps with
conservation.
Bloom's 50th Assembly District comprises the communities of
Agoura Hills, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Brentwood, Hollywood, Malibu,
Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Topanga, West Hollywood, and West
Los Angeles.
http://www.smmirror.com/articles/News/Assemblyman-Bloom-To-Sea-World-San-Diego-Release-10-Orcas-Back-Into-The-Ocean/39691
Seattle PIBlackfish Generates Another Bombshell: California
Assemblyman Introduces Legislation to Phase Out Orca Whale
CaptivityBy: Candace Calloway Whiting03/06/2014
Thurdsay Mar 6th. Tomorrow, California Assemblyman Richard Bloom
will introduce sweeping legislation designed to transform the
discussion of whales and dolphins in captivity from should orcas be
kept in captivity to since captivity is inhumane for orcas, this is
what we propose to do.
Following the release of the documentary Blackfish an engaging
documentary that disclosed the suffering endured by orca whales in
captivity an increased public awareness is encouraging politicians
and lawmakers to submit legislation that will curtail the ability
of theme parks to capture or display these large, social animals
for entertainment.
Even before the recent awareness raised by the film, states were
moving in the direction of eliminating captive display of whales
and dolphins. A 1992 law in South Carolina prohibitsthe display of
dolphins and porpoises. It was approved after pressure by the South
Carolina Humane Society to stop a dolphin park in Myrtle Beach.
The island of Maui, Hawaii passed legislation making it
captive-free in 2002.
Recently New York senator Greg Ball (R), introduced a bill to
outlaw the confinement of orcas in that state, and it caused more
of a flap over the fact that an aid (now fired) copied and pasted
someone elses work than it did over the legislation itself, for the
reason that orcas are not displayed in that state in the first
place.
But the legislation introduced in the state of California by
Assemblyman Richard Bloom (D) is in another league entirely,
because that state is home to SeaWorld San Diego, and Six Flags,
Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo. While Six flags is not currently
displaying orcas (they sent their last surviving whale, Shouka, to
SeaWorld in 2012), under existing laws they could house another
orca in their small pool in the future.
SeaWorld, however, has made a fortune off of displaying orcas in
circus type shows while claiming to be educational, and their orcas
have caused the death of four human beings. They are unlikely to be
happy about this bill.
If the bill passes into law, it will allow for the gradual
transition of orca confinement from entertainment purposes to
solely keeping orcas captive for research, rescue, and
rehabilitation. It would prevent the breeding of captive animals,
and require that those animals maintained in captivity either be
released to the wild or be kept in sea pens, which are defined as
open water enclosures, anchored to the seafloor and the shoreline.
The sea pens must be accessible to the public, but shows and
entertainment are not allowed.
Overall, it is a progressive and fair piece of legislation that
will give California theme parks ample time to re-invent themselves
as the educational and rescue organizations they claim to be.
Blooms move on to protect killer whales from the trauma of
captivity does not appear to have been lightly undertaken, and
seems to reflect the true character of the man. After a career in
family law, he became involved in politics, first in Santa Monica
city council, then as mayor of that town for three terms. He was
Chair of the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Commission, and in 2002
was appointed to the California Coastal Commission.
As a legislator, he has been involved in civic, environmental
and animal issues (he is part of a bipartisan group of 26
legislators that make up Californias Animal Protection Caucus.
Bloom was involved in the following, among others:
Extending an existing law that prohibits glass beads containing
high levels of hazardous heavy metals such as lead and arsenic from
being imported into and used in California.
Improving 911 Emergency Response
Restoring Local Redevelopment Funds
Sustainable Communities & Climate Protection Act Funding
Helping our Homeless Youth
Hazardous Waste Transportation
If this bill becomes law, a huge step forward will have been
made, and if it doesnt make it through this time, it is certain to
keep the issue alive in the minds of those who consider spending
their money at parks that display orcas. The captures are brutal,
and it is time to relegate the era of captivity to the history
books.
http://blog.seattlepi.com/candacewhiting/2014/03/06/blackfish-generates-another-bombshell-california-assemblyman-introduces-legislation-to-phase-out-orca-whale-captivity/Hollywood
LifeSeaWorld: New Bill May Ban Orca Shows After Shocking Blackfish
DocumentaryBy: Chloe Melas03/07/2014
Baby orcas are ripped from their mothers sides in the ocean, and
then held captive in small bathtubs, while they cry. This is just
one of the disturbing scenes in CNNs Blackfish, which enraged Santa
Monica Assemblyman, Richard Bloom, who proposed a bill on March 7,
protecting orcas in California. Blooms bill will ban orcas from
performing in shows, ban captive breeding and prohibit the import
and also the export of killer whales.
The film, which made its debut at the Sundance Film Festival in
2013, and later aired on CNN, has sparked an international outrage.
The film focused on the death of trainer Dawn Brancheau, who was
killed by SeaWorld orca, Tilikum. But the countless interviews by
former SeaWorld employees who worked during that time reveal that
it wasnt just an orca acting out of instinct, this was an animal
that had been held for years in deplorable conditions at
SeaWorld.
There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes, Assemblyman Richard said. These
beautiful creatures are much too large and far too intelligent to
be confined in small, concrete tanks for their entire lives.
This bill, although prohibiting orcas from being a part of
shows, would still allow parks to put the whales on exhibit in
aquarium-like settings. This bill would apply to parks only in
California and hopefully other states would follow in the states
footsteps.
But despite the immense amount of money SeaWorld makes, $9.6
million a year, in San Diego alone, it sounds like Richard isnt the
only one who feels this bill must be passed.
SeaWorlds reputation of treating its workers poorly dates back
to its opening 50 years ago, California assemblywoman, Lorena
Gonzalez, who represents San Diego said. Its about time we continue
this conversation about job quality and workplace safety at
SeaWorld whether it involves groundskeepers, concession workers or
killer whale trainers. Recent evidence suggests its record with
orcas isnt much better. Im looking forward to having an honest
conversation about SeaWorlds business practices and how they can
really be an icon that makes San Diego proud.
SeaWorld feels that Blackfish was a manipulated version of what
happens at their parks. In a statement released by SeaWorld they
say the film: employs false and emotionally manipulative sequences.
Relies on former SeaWorld employees, most of whom have little
experience with killer whales and others who havent worked at
SeaWorld in nearly 20 years. Relies on animal rights activists
masquerading as scientists.
http://hollywoodlife.com/2014/03/07/seaworld-bill-ban-orca-shows-blackfish/Take
PartSeaWorlds Worst Nightmare: Calif. Lawmaker to Propose Ban on
Orcas in CaptivityBy: David Kirby03/06/2014
In a surprising move that is sure to send shock waves across the
entire captive whale and dolphin industry, a California lawmaker
will propose legislation to outlaw Shamu shows at SeaWorld San
Diego.
State Assemblymember Richard Bloom, DSanta Monica, will
introduce Friday the Orca Welfare and Safety Act, which would make
it illegal to hold in captivity, or use, a wild-caught or
captive-bred orca for performance or entertainment purposes. The
bill would also ban artificial insemination of captive killer
whales in California and block the import of orcas or orca semen
from other states.
Violators would face a fine up to $100,000 and/or six months in
a county jail.
There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes, Bloom declared in a written
statement prior to a press conference to be held at the Santa
Monica Pier. These beautiful creatures are much too large and far
too intelligent to be confined in small, concrete pens for their
entire lives. It is time to end the practice of keeping orcas
captive for human amusement.
According to Bloom, the law would be the most comprehensive
protection law for captive orcas in the United States in over 40
years.
Under the terms of the bill, all 10 orcas held in tanks at
SeaWorld San Diego, the only California facility that has whales,
shall be rehabilitated and returned to the wild where possible. If
that is not possible, then the whales must be transferred and held
in a sea pen that is open to the public and not used for
performance or entertainment purposes.
Exempt from the legislation are any orcas held for
rehabilitation after a rescue or stranding, or for research
purposes. But even these animals would have to be returned to the
ocean or sent to a sea pen.
It is not the first time state lawmakers have tried to outlaw
the captivity of killer whales, the worlds largest dolphin. South
Carolina passed a bill in 1992 against captivity for dolphins and
porpoises following efforts by the South Carolina Humane Society to
stop a proposed dolphin park in Myrtle Beach. Just last month, New
York state Sen. Greg Ball, R-Carmel, introduced a bill to ban orca
captivity in that state.
Of course, there are no captive orcas in South Carolina or New
York, making the California bill far more than a symbolic
gesture.
At least five countriesIndia, Croatia, Hungary, Chile, and Costa
Ricahave also outlawed all cetacean captivity, while Switzerland
has banned captivity for dolphins.
Dr. Naomi Rose, marine mammal scientist at the Animal Welfare
Institute, said the bill was inspired by the orcas-in-captivity
documentary Blackfish.
The Blackfish effect has never been in greater
evidenceeverything has led to this, the first serious legislative
proposal to prohibit the captive display of this highly intelligent
and social species, Rose wrote in an email. SeaWorld should join
with this effort rather than continue to fight it. They can be on
the right side of history.
Assemblymember Bloom reached out to Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the
director of Blackfish, for help with the bill, who in turn
consulted with Rose.
We did not initiate this proposal, Rose wrote. But once they
reached out to us, we dove in wholeheartedly and assisted in every
way we couldhelping with the bill language, information, and
fact-gathering, and getting support from various sectors of the
public, including the scientific community.
Rose also gave credit to former SeaWorld trainers featured in
the documentary for supporting the legislation. Rose,
Cowperthwaite, and former SeaWorld trainers Carol Ray and John
Hargrove were scheduled to appear with Bloom at the Friday press
conference.
Should the bill become law, SeaWorld might want to look at other
highly successful aquariums that do not keep cetaceans in swimming
pools. The Monterey Aquarium in northern California, for example,
is routinely packed with visitors, without a single whale or
dolphin in sight.
In South Carolina, where orcas will likely never entertain
people, staffers at the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston
routinely direct visitors to local waterways if they want to see
dolphins.
The Charleston Post and Courier reported in 2010 that when
tourists ask to see the dolphins at the aquarium, the facilitys
CEO, Kevin Mills, smiles and answers, Just walk out on our
observation deck and you're bound to see them, swimming freely in
the harbor.
http://www.takepart.com/article/2014/03/06/seaworlds-worst-nightmare-calif-lawmaker-propose-ban-orcas-captivity
BustleSeaWorld Orca Shows Might Be Banned By This California
Bill, Which is the Outcome the Chain has Feared Since
'Blackfish'By: Jenny Hollander03/07/14
Ever since last years release of Blackfish, SeaWorld must have
been waiting with bated breath for a political response. Now, a
proposed bill banning orca captivation in California is here:
Richard Bloom, a Democratic Assemblyman for Santa Monica, will
introduce the Orca Welfare and Safety Act Friday. The staggeringly
successful, Netflix-distributed documentary Blackfish sparked a
huge backlash with its portrayal of the captivity of SeaWorld orcas
(a.k.a. killer whales.) It contended that the deaths and injury of
several SeaWorld trainers can be blamed on the tight, confined
spaces the chains orcas are kept in for decades, sparking them to
become psychotic.
The bill would render it illegal to capture, hold, or use an
orca for entertainment purposes think Shamu. If passed, the
legislation wouldnt necessitate the removal of all orcas from all
SeaWorld locations, but would require 10 orcas to be taken from
SeaWorlds San Diego marine park.
Those 10 orcas, according to the proposed legislation, would be
realized back into the wild if possible. If they werent in physical
shape to do so, they would be kept in a rehabilitation center and
not used for performance purposes. And depending on the outcome of
the bill, a political ripple effect targeting the other SeaWorld
locations is entirely possible.
Make no mistake: This legislation is in direct response to whats
been dubbed the Blackfish effect. The films director, Gabriela
Cowperthwaite, even helped draft the bill with assemblyman Bloom.
After the films 2013 release, animal-rights groups like PETA (and,
um, Alec Baldwin) placed fresh pressure on SeaWorld to end their
orca shows and release the animals back into captivity. As Bustle
reported:
Most of the worlds captured orcas live in SeaWorld facilities,
where theyve been bred with one another since their ancestors
capture. There, they perform for food, and are kept in marine pools
the size of a swimming pool a tiny, tiny fraction of the amount of
space your average wild orca swims through every day. At night,
theyre kept in dark isolation.
Meanwhile, orcas have caused the deaths of a handful of SeaWorld
and SeaWorld-affiliated trainers. Animal rights organizations like
PETA claim that the long-term captivity and poor living conditions
lead to the orcas becoming highly aggressive and even
psychotic.
SeaWorlds side of the story is that the orcas are happy,
friendly animals who love their trainers, the rush of performing,
and are given enough space to roam. In Blackfish, several trainers
attest that they believed that while working there.
In the first half of 2013 alone since Blackfish came out,
SeaWorlds visitor numbers dropped by close to 10 percent net losses
of $15.9 million compared to the year before.
Last Thanksgiving, there were calls to ban a SeaWorld float at
the Macys Parade. Later, a number of performers pulled out of
SeaWorlds February performance series in protest, including the
Barenaked Ladies, Willie Nelson, and Heart.
And last month, New York State proposed legislation that would
ban the captivity of orcas for entertainment purposes. Its a purely
symbolic gesture of support, though, because New York State doesnt
actually have any captive orcas.
In a statement, California lawmaker Bloom explained his proposed
bill: There is no justification for the continued captive display
of orcas for entertainment purposes, he said. These beautiful
creatures are much too large and far too intelligent to be confined
in small, concrete pens for their entire lives. It is time to end
the practice of keeping orcas captive for human amusement.
http://www.bustle.com/articles/17522-seaworld-orca-shows-might-be-banned-by-this-california-bill-which-is-the-outcome-the-chain
The WrapBlackfish Effect: SeaWorld Under Fire Again as CA Bill
Proposes Ban on Whale ShowsBy: Jordan Zakarin03/07/14
A Hollywood-area legislator is working to end shows featuring
captive marine animals
The documentary Blackfish is proving to have a long tail.
The hit doc, which premiered at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival,
then aired on CNN and later put up for live streaming on Netflix,
detailed the circumstances surrounding the deaths of several whale
trainers at SeaWorld, and the alleged abuses and neglect with which
the parks treat its captive marine mammals. Despite the company's
denial of the film's claims, Gabriela Cowperthwaite's doc has
inspired several protests and national outrage, and now, it may
lead to severe legal ramifications.
Richard Bloom, the Assemblyman for California's 50th district,
and the chair of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Natural
Resources and Transportation, has introduced a bill that would
require organizations to cease the sort of orcas circus shows that
are a staple of SeaWorld's business, and permit them only to keep
killer whales captive for research, rescue, and rehabilitation
purposes.
The bill would also forbid breeding in captivity, as well as ban
the import and export of orcas. Over time, the organizations would
be required to free their orcas into the wild or an open water sea
pen. SeaWorld's San Diego park is currently the only location in
California that uses whales for the shows that Bloom's bill would
ban.
There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes, the assemblyman said in a
statement. These beautiful creatures are much too large and far too
intelligent to be confined in small, concrete tanks for their
entire lives.
The outcry over Blackfish keyed protests over SeaWorld's float
in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, and
protestors from PETA were arrested for going after the company's
float in the Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year's Day. Several
musicians, including country star Martina McBride, have canceled
scheduled concerts at the park, as well.
Nonetheless, SeaWorld said in January that it had attained
record attendance at its parks in 2013 and record profit in the
third quarter. It is expected to announce its fourth quarter
financials later this month, which should be a more telling figure,
as the CNN airing of the documentary did not occur until November,
while it went on Netflix in December.
http://www.thewrap.com/blackfish-effect-seaworld-fire-ca-bill-proposes-ban-whale-shows/
KUSI NewsLawmaker wants to ban orca shows at SeaWorldBy:
Staff03/07/14
A state lawmaker was expected to propose legislation Friday that
would ban SeaWorld from using orcas in its San Diego shows.
Assemblyman Richard Bloom, D-Santa Monica, said he was being
driven by allegations of animal abuse made in the disputed
documentary "Blackfish," according to U-T San Diego.
"There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes," Bloom said in remarks prepared
for the bill's release today. "These beautiful creatures are much
too large and far too intelligent to be confined in small, concrete
tanks for their entire lives."
SeaWorld executives have adamantly denied animal abuse
allegations, along with accusations that they do not do enough to
protect the trainers who work with killer whales, which can live up
to 80 years, grow to 32 feet in length and weigh up to six
tons.
"Blackfish" also explores the 2010 death of trainer at SeaWorld
Orlando who was drowned by an orca. Since Dawn Brancheau's death,
trainers have not been allowed back into the water with the
orcas.
In an open letter, SeaWorld accuses Blackfish filmmakers of
using emotionally manipulative sequences and relying on animal
rights activists masquerading as scientists and former SeaWorld
employees with little experience working with killer whales.
Bloom's proposal has three central objectives, according to U-T
San Diego: end the use of performing orcas in theme shows, ban
captive breeding and prohibit the import and export of the
so-called killer whales. It does not seek to prevent SeaWorld from
maintaining an orca exhibit so long as it is done in more of an
aquarium-like setting.
SeaWorld spokesman Dave Koontz told U-T San Diego the park could
not comment on Bloom's proposal because company executives had not
seen it.
http://www.kusi.com/story/24916018/lawmaker-wants-to-ban-orca-shows
News 13SeaWorld killer whale shows could be banned under
California billBy: Staff03/07/2014
A state lawmaker in California has proposed a bill that would
ban SeaWorld from using killer whales in shows at its San Diego
theme park.
According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Assemblyman Richard
Bloom said he decided to take legislative action after seeing the
documentary "Blackfish," which heavily criticized SeaWorld's
practice of keeping killer whales in captivity following the 2010
death of trainer Dawn Brancheau at SeaWorld Orlando.
The "Orca Welfare and Safety Act" aims to end the use of
performing orcas in shows. It would also ban breeding of the
animals in captivity, as well as importing or exporting killer
whales.
SeaWorld would still be permitted to keep killer whales at the
theme park in an aquarium-like setting. The bill would only ban the
use of orcas in performances or other entertainment purposes.
The ban would apply to any theme park in California, though
SeaWorld San Diego is the only park in the state that currently has
killer whales.
A SeaWorld spokesman told the Union-Tribune on Thursday that the
company had not yet seen the legislation and could not comment.
"Blackfish" raised questions about the safety and captivity of
killer whales. Since its release, the theme park has been
criticized by animal rights groups, and numerous musicians
cancelled their scheduled gigs at SeaWorld Orlando's "Bands, Brew
& BBQ" event, forcing the park to rebook nearly the entire
festival.
SeaWorld responded to critics with a full-page newspaper ad in
December, noting it hasn't collected a killer whale from the wild
in 35 years, and that it does not separate killer whale calves from
their mothers, despite "Blackfish's" claims.
Brancheau's family spoke out in January, saying while they
appreciate the attention the documentary has given to the welfare
of animals, "'Blackfish' is not Dawn's story." They said Brancheau
would not have worked at SeaWorld for 15 years if she thought the
orcas were not well-cared for there.
http://www.mynews13.com/content/news/cfnews13/on-the-town/article.html/content/news/articles/cfn/2014/3/7/seaworld_orca_ban.html
WPTV 5New legislation to be introduced for orca protectionBy:
Jennifer Jensen03/07/14
On Friday, Assembly Member Richard Bloom (D-Santa Monica) will
be introducing new legislation that could change the star
attraction at SeaWorld.
It's called the Orca Welfare & Safety Act and it's being
touted as landmark legislation calling for improvements to orca
protection laws in our state.
A Team 10 source who is familiar with the legislation says they
are proposed changes to the Fish and Game laws that govern orca
captivity.
We're told the "New law will not allow captive breeding, moving
orcas or gametes (egg/ sperm) across state lines, no using rescued
animals for entertainment and some provisions for sea sanctuaries
being established as well."
But how will these proposed changes affect the Shamu show at
SeaWorld?
SeaWorld really has to think about how it evolves as a business,
as a brand and where does it put its emphasis in the future, says
local marketing expert Miro Copic from San Diego State University.
He adds that Shamu is definitely part of their brand.
SeaWorld certainly is a very diversified park. Its got a lot of
different shows, so it doesn't rely as much as it did 10 to 15
years ago on the orcas, on Shamu, but it is a part of the SeaWorld
brand.
In San Diego there are so many other things to do, said San
Diego resident Mike Berry, who says he does not approve of orcas
being in captivity . I don't think it would be that big of a hit
economically.
Others say orcas should not serve as entertainment.
I ride past it every day and it kind of sickens me, another
woman near the theme park told us. Its an aquatic zoo and I think
its inhumane.
We contacted SeaWorld San Diego about this proposed legislation
and were told they are unable to comment at this time because have
not yet seen or had a chance to review the proposed
legislation.
We spoke with Assembly Member Bloom's office Thursday night.
Were told not only will the proposed laws protect orcas still in
captivity but will better ensure that the handlers and trainers are
kept safe.
We'll bring you updates Friday once the law is introduced in Los
Angeles.
http://www.wptv.com/news/national/new-legislation-to-be-introduced-for-orca-protection
KTLASanta Monica Lawmaker Proposes Bill to Ban Killer Whale
ShowsBy: Eric Spillman03/07/14
Assemblyman Richard Bloom of Santa Monica planned to introduce a
bill Friday that would ban killer whales at theme parks, his office
said in a statement.
The Orca Welfare and Safety Act would make it illegal to hold in
captivity, or use, a wild-caught or captive-bred orca for
performance or entertainment purposes, the statement said.
Bloom, a democrat, revealed he came up with the idea after
watching a powerful documentary about killer whales.
The film, Blackfish, was released last year and tells the story
of a SeaWorld trainer who died in 2010 when she was pulled
underwater by a killer whale.
The film argued that orcas at theme parks suffer from boredom
and stress. It also raised questions about the way SeaWorld treats
the animals.
Assemblyman Blooms bill, if it passes, would make it against the
law to keep a killer whale in captivity for performance or
entertainment purposes.
It would also require that SeaWorld rehabilitate and release its
killer whales back into the ocean if possible.
SeaWorld in San Diego currently keeps about 10 orcas in its
tanks.
Its the only theme park in California that has them.
Violating the law would carry a fine of up to 100 thousand
dollars and six months in jail.
These beautiful creatures are much too large and too intelligent
to be confined in small, concrete pens for their entire lives,
Assemblyman Bloom said in a statement. It is time to end the
practice of keeping orcas captive for human amusement.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals posted a statement
on its website praising the proposed legislation.
But SeaWorld released a statement criticizing Bloom for
associating with extreme animal rights activists, many of whom
regularly campaign against SeaWorld and other accredited marine
mammal parks and institutions.
Bloom planned to hold a news conference in Santa Monica Friday
at 11:30 a.m. to discuss the bill, along with the people who made
the documentary.
Expect SeaWorld to fight back. Theme park representatives have
previously said the documentary is based on lies.
http://ktla.com/2014/03/07/santa-monica-lawmaker-proposes-bill-to-ban-killer-whale-shows/#ixzz2vJGA4Ttc
KPBSCalifornia Bill Would Ban SeaWorld From Using Orcas In San
Diego ShowsBy: City News Service03/07/14
A state lawmaker was expected to propose legislation Friday that
would ban SeaWorld from using orcas in its San Diego shows.
Assemblyman Richard Bloom, D-Santa Monica, said he was being
driven by allegations of animal abuse made in the disputed
documentary "Blackfish," according to U-T San Diego.
"There is no justification for the continued captive display of
orcas for entertainment purposes,'' Bloom said in remarks prepared
for the bill's release Friday.
"These beautiful creatures are much too large and far too
intelligent to be confined in small, concrete tanks for their
entire lives.''
SeaWorld executives have adamantly denied animal abuse
allegations, along with accusations that they do not do enough to
protect the trainers who work with killer whales, which can live up
to 80 years, grow to 32 feet in length and weigh up to six
tons.
"Blackfish'' also explores the 2010 death of trainer at SeaWorld
Orlando who was drowned by an orca. Since Dawn Brancheau's death,
trainers have not been allowed back into the water with the
orcas.
In an open letter, SeaWorld accuses Blackfish filmmakers of
using emotionally manipulative sequences and relying on animal
rights activists masquerading as scientists and former SeaWorld
employees with little experience working with killer whales.
Bloom's proposal has three central objectives, according to U-T
San Diego: end the use of performing orcas in theme shows, ban
captive breeding and prohibit the import and export of the
so-called killer whales. It does not seek to prevent SeaWorld from
maintaining an orca exhibit so long as it is done in more of an
aquarium-like setting.
SeaWorld spokesman Dave Koontz told U-T San Diego the park could
not comment on Bloom's proposal because company executives had not
seen it.
http://www.kpbs.org/news/2014/mar/07/california-bill-would-ban-seaworld-using-orcas-san/
CBS 8Proposed legislation would end orca shows at SeaWorldBy:
Richard Allyn03/07/2014
A California lawmaker is proposing a bill that would mean the
end of the road for SeaWorld San Diego's famed Shamu show.
Democratic state assembly member Richard Bloom of Santa Monica
says he felt compelled to draft this legislation after seeing the
controversial documentary "Blackfish," which calls into question
the safety of SeaWorld's trainers and its treatment of its killer
whales.
This bill would effectively end all performances by killer
whales at California entertainment parks, which of course applies
only to SeaWorld in San Diego.
It would also ban captive breeding programs involving orcas and
also prohibit importing and exporting orcas.
As for those orcas which are already kept at SeaWorld, the
legislation would require the park to essentially "retire" those
killer whales, which would then be put on display for the public to
view. However, they would not be allowed to perform.
As for SeaWorld, which has repeatedly blasted the documentary
"Blackfish" as propaganda, they have made no public comment on this
proposed legislation.
Democratic assembly member Lorena Gonzales of San Diego has
already gone on the record, via social media, that she will most
likely vote 'yes' on this bill.
Gonzalez has posted on Facebook, "SeaWorld's reputation of
treating its workers poorly dates back to its opening 50 years ago.
It's about time we continue this conversation about job quality and
workplace safety at Sea World whether it involves groundskeepers,
concessions workers or killer whale trainers. Recent evidence
suggests its record with orcas isn't much better. I'm looking
forward to having an honest conversation about Sea World's business
practices and how they can really be an icon that makes San Diego
proud."
While this bill needs only a simple majority to pass,
realistically it could face an uphill battle in gaining passage. No
hearing date for this legislation has been scheduled yet.
http://www.cbs8.com/story/24911806/proposed-legislation-would-end-orca-shows-at
San Diego 6 (CW)New State Legislation Could Ban SeaWorld from
using Orcas During Live ShowsBy: City News Service03/07/2014
A state lawmaker was expected to propose legislation Friday that
would ban SeaWorld from using orcas in its San Diego shows