After being shelved in early December 2023, the proposed Los Angeles rodeo ban ordinance recently resurfaced with modified language. The original wording would have specifically banned the use of certain items used in rodeos and “rodeo-like events.” The targeted items include flank straps, fixed-rowel or sharpened spurs, electric prods, and “wire tie-downs.” This effort ignores the majority of rodeos and rodeo associations that already have rules banning, or strictly managing, the use of these items to ensure the humane treatment of all animals involved. Additionally, the ordinance was problematic because it would have adversely impacted other equine events and widely accepted, scientifically proven, humane livestock handling practices.
The newly reworded ordinance specifically prohibits the majority of rodeo events, stating:
It shall be unlawful to organize or engage in any of the following activities for live public amusement or entertainment: Bareback Bronc Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Bull Riding, Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping, or any other activity that involves physically wrestling an animal to the ground, roping an animal, or attempting to ride and remain mounted on a bucking animal.
Ignoring facts and statistics that have proven otherwise, the ordinance parrots the tired animal extremist falsehood that rodeo events “often cause harm and injuries to the animals involved, including sprains and broken limbs.” A study performed at 148 professional rodeos and 70 sections of slack (excess contestant runs that won’t fit in a rodeo performance) found 28 injuries out of 60,244 animal exposures, equating to an injury rate of .00046%. It is doubtful such a low accident rate can be matched by any other major professional sport.
Ordinance Reaches Beyond Rodeo
It is deeply concerning that, if passed into law, the proposed ordinance would also amend the municipal code to make numerous other animal-centered businesses and activities illegal without a government-issued permit. Permit applications could, and will, be easily and arbitrarily denied. Animal enterprises listed include, but are not limited to: “a dog kennel, cat kennel, pet shop, zoo, wildlife conservation center, animal rental establishment, animal grooming parlor, riding academy, livery stable, boarding stable, pony ring or pony ride, horse market, mule market, pet show, cat show, animal acts or exhibitions, wild animals, miscellaneous animal or reptile establishment, or carrier and homing pigeons which are to be liberated for exercise or racing.”
This verbiage is included in the rodeo ban and is not a stand-alone ordinance, suggesting its backers realized it would likely not pass due to its all-encompassing prohibitions. Unfortunately, it is common for laws and regulations to be passed in this way, which underscores the reality that animal extremists are focused on incrementally eliminating human/animal interaction. In recent years, horse racing and pony rides in Los Angeles have also been targeted by animal rights zealots. A small pony ride business that existed in Los Angeles Griffith Park for generations was recently pressured, harassed, and threatened into ceasing operations.
How You Can Help
We encourage you to submit informed, thoughtful, and respectful comments in opposition to the proposed rodeo ban. The ordinance has been referred to the City Council’s Neighborhoods and Community Enrichment Committee, consisting of chair, Eunisses Hernandez; vice-chair, John S. Lee; and member, Heather Hutt. These City Council members can be reached at:
Councilmember.Hernandez@lacity.org
Additionally, comments can be submitted HERE.
The Los Angeles City Council must hear from citizens/taxpayers/voters who do not want a small number of radical special interest groups comprised of animal rights/vegan extremists to eliminate freedom of choice for the majority of Los Angelenos based upon a flawed ideology.
Related Links:
Los Angeles Board of Animal Services Recommends Ban of Rodeo Events
Who Is The Los Angeles City Council Actually Serving
There Are No Racetracks In Los Angeles, So Why The Proposed Ban On Horse Racing
