[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 38 (Friday, March 21, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E568-E569]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 INTRODUCTION OF LEGISLATION TO END THE USE OF STEEL JAW LEGHOLD TRAPS 
                          IN THE UNITED STATES

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. NITA M. LOWEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 21, 1997

  Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, yesterday I introduced, along with my 
colleague from Connecticut, Christopher Shays, legislation to

[[Page E569]]

end the use of steel jaw leghold traps in the United States. The 
majority of Americans believe this measure is long overdue. I hope this 
House will debate and pass it as soon as possible.
  Steel jaw leghold traps slam with bone-crushing force upon their 
victims. These devices are completely nonselective. They threaten small 
children, cherished pets, and endangered species. Less cruel trapping 
alternatives exist for the 2,100 Americans that earn their living by 
hunting or trapping.
  A recent survey demonstrated that three out of four Americans believe 
the trap should be prohibited. This past November, Colorado and 
Massachusetts joined New Jersey, Florida, and Rhode Island in outlawing 
the use of these traps; several other States are considering similar 
laws. The American people want the traps outlawed now. The best way to 
accomplish that is by passing my legislation.
  Let me add, Mr. Speaker, that it's not just the American people that 
oppose the use of these traps. Eighty-eight nations have already banned 
the use of these inhumane traps. The belief in this ban is so strong in 
Europe that the European Parliament adopted a law prohibiting the 
importation of furs from nations that continue to use these devices. 
When this law is implemented, the United States will no longer be able 
to export furs to Europe--unless we pass this bill.
  Mr. Speaker, in the 104th Congress, more than 90 Members cosponsored 
H.R. 1404, which is nearly identical to the bill Congressman Shays and 
I are introducing today. As news of this legislation spreads, I expect 
we will gain even more congressional support.
  I hope we can hold hearings on the issue quickly, and then bring this 
bill to the floor. I invite all of my colleagues to join me in pushing 
for the elimination of these cruel and unnecessary traps once and for 
all.

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