Yesterday, Feb. 14, the House Committee on Judiciary took public testimony on a bill to dictate what the citizens of Rhode Island can’t wear and can’t sell in the state because animal-rights extremists are out to destroy America’s hunting and trapping heritage.
HB 5258 bans the sale, display for sale, trade or otherwise distribution of fur products, with very limited exceptions. The impact will be felt far and wide, including any items that utilize fur in production, such as fishing lures, gloves, boots or other clothing, jewelry, toys, and home accessories and decor.
Animal-rights extremists, like the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), which testified supporting this bill, have not been shy about wanting to end trapping and we know they will use whatever tactic necessary to accomplish their goal.
The committee decided to hold HB 5258 for further study so they could review all testimony received. They will decide at a later date whether to bring this bill forward or keep it locked in the committee without a vote.
The Sportsmen’s Alliance will continue to monitor this important legislation and will email you when action is needed. In the meantime, check out our legislative map to see the other bills the Sportsmen’s Alliance are watching in Rhode Island and around the nation.
About the Sportsmen’s Alliance: The Sportsmen’s Alliance protects and defends America’s wildlife conservation programs and the pursuits – hunting, fishing and trapping – that generate the money to pay for them. Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation is responsible for public education, legal defense and research. Its mission is accomplished through several distinct programs coordinated to provide the most complete defense capability possible. Stay connected to Sportsmen’s Alliance: Online, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.