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California bans the use of most animals in circus acts

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You may start to notice a change the next time you visit the circus. California has banned the use of most animals in circus acts.

The law exempts rodeos and does not apply to domesticated dogs, cats, and horses.

California is now the third state to enact such a ban, joining New Jersey and Hawaii. Circuses have been declining in popularity.

The most well-known act, the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, closed in 2017 after 146 years of performances. At least 18 circuses don't use animals at all, including Cirque du Soleil.