PETITION TARGETS: New Jersey Senate Economic Growth Committee Chair and New Jersey Assembly Commerce, Economic Development and Agriculture Committee Chair
Octopuses suffer from intense stress and even self-mutilation on commercial farms when they are crammed into overcrowded tanks, according to Gothamist. This is the horror that could await these intelligent, solitary, and curious animals who naturally roam vast stretches of the ocean at speeds of up to 25 mph.
In addition to the cruelty of conditions for the octopuses, the industrial farming of these remarkable creatures also poses serious environmental risks, requiring up to five pounds of sea animals for every pound of octopus produced, while generating pollution, consuming a massive amount of water, and contributing to habitat loss.
To ensure octopus farming doesn’t take root, New Jersey lawmakers have introduced a bill to ban the practice statewide.
“There’s a significant ethical issue when it comes to farm raising octopuses,” stated New Jersey State Senator Andrew Zwicker, a cosponsor of the bill. “These creatures have tremendous intelligence and sensitivity.”
If passed, S3914/A5078 would both ban octopus farming in New Jersey and prohibit businesses from selling, possessing, or transporting aquaculture-raised octopuses.
Following enacted bans in Washington and California and pending bans in Oregon and New York, New Jersey is now joining the growing movement to outlaw this cruel practice before it can begin.
Sign our petition urging New Jersey legislators to support this bill and protect these sentient beings from senseless suffering and death on industrial farms in the state.
