DelBene, Dexter Introduce Legislation to Stop Future Capture, Breeding of Whales for Public Display

Today, Congresswomen Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Maxine Dexter, M.D. (OR-03) reintroduced the Strengthening Welfare in Marine Settings (SWIMS) Act, legislation that would end the future capture and breeding of whales for public display. Certain cetaceans, such as orcas, beluga whales, pilot whales, and false killer whales, are cognitively, emotionally, and socially complex animals who cannot thrive in captivity, according to multiple studies. Whales held for display often exhibit signs of suffering and distress and have significantly shorter lifespans than whales in the wild. Currently, there are approximately 70 whales held in captivity in the United States. The SWIMS Act would: Prohibit the taking, importation, or exportation of these whales for public display. Prohibit any breeding of these whales for future public display. Allow exemptions for animals being transported to a sanctuary setting or released to the wild. “Whales and dolphins are treasures to the Pacific Northwest, and they belong in the wild,” said DelBene . “Scientific evidence shows that when these majestic animals are kept in captivity, they suffer significant distress and shorter life spans. This legislation would prevent the capture and breeding of whales for public display to ensure they remain in their natural habitats and free from abuse and exploitation.” “Whales belong in the open ocean, not behind glass,” said Dexter. “ These extraordinary animals are icons of the Pacific Northwest, forming deep family bonds and playing a vital role in healthy oceans. Captivity robs them of the space, freedom, and connection they need to thrive. Their lives should be defined by the ocean’s possibilities, not the walls of a tank.” “Science increasingly supports the conclusion that we cannot provide conditions in a concrete enclosure that accommodate the size, wide-ranging nature, and physiological, behavioral, and social needs of these species,” said Dr. Naomi Rose, senior scientist for marine mammal biology at the Animal Welfare Institute . “The SWIMS Act recognizes that reality and offers a path forward by prohibiting breeding, trade, and capture for public display. Let this be the last generation in captivity of these ocean predators.” The SWIMS Act is supported by the Animal Legal Defense Fund, Animal Welfare Institute, Born Free USA, Cetacean Society International, CompassionWorks International, Humane World Action Fund, Humane World for Animals, International Marine Mammal Project of Earth Island Institute, Last Chance for Animals, Oceanic Preservation Society, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, Whale and Dolphin Conservation, Whale Sanctuary Project, and World Animal Protection. The bill text can be found here .