Portsmouth State Rep Introduces Bill To Protect Circus Elephants From Abuse

A Portsmouth representative is working to protect circus animals from potential abuse. 

Rep. Raymond Gallison (D-District 69, Portsmouth and Bristol) introduced a bill recently to make mistreatment of circus elephants a felony, reports The Associated Press. The bill would also prohibit animal handlers from using such training devices as bullhooks on the animals. 

The bill, H-5853, heads for a hearing this Wednesday. If passed, violations of the bill could result in fines of $5,000. 

To read the full bill, click here.