Currently working its way through the Senate to (hopefully!) be passed as law, the Jane Goodall Act is a landmark piece of Canadian legislation that would create some of the strongest protections for animals in captivity in the world.

Here’s everything you need to know:

  • Originally introduced by Senator Murray Sinclair in 2020, the proposed bill contains new legal protections for captive big cats, bears, wolves, seals, sea lions, walruses, certain monkeys, and dangerous reptiles, such as crocodiles and giant pythons. The bill would also phase out elephant captivity in Canada.
  • The Bill was reintroduced to the Senate in March of 2022 by Senator Marty Klyne.

The Act will:

  • Ban new captivity at roadside zoos for big cats, bears, wolves, seals, sea lions, walruses, certain monkeys, and dangerous reptiles.
  • Phase out elephant captivity in Canada. 
  • Require permits for individuals and organizations to acquire or breed big cats and other species.
  • Provide limited legal standing for affected species, and encourage orca Kiska’s relocation to a whale sanctuary in Nova Scotia. 
  • Support action on the illegal wildlife trade including elephant ivory and rhinoceros horn bans.
  • Create a new designation for Jane Goodall Act ‘animal care organizations,’ including zoos, aquariums and sanctuaries. 

The Act has been drafted (and continues to be shaped) in consultation with experts from all over the country.

Since being reintroduced to the Senate, the Bill has seen support from:

How can you help?

Talk about the Jane Goodall Act! Share it on social media, tell your friends and family, and make some noise. We want to show a steady stream of public support for the Act, and you can play a big part in that. Download our social packs and learn more here.

If you have any further questions, get in touch at info@janegoodall.ca.

Explore Related Content

Good News Stories, Illegal Wildlife Trade, News and Updates

The Jane Goodall Act Has Been Reintroduced in the Senate

June 2, 2022
Good News Stories, News and Updates

Announcing Chantal Kreviazuk as JGIC’s New Brand Ambassador

June 2, 2022
Dr. Jane, Good News Stories

Just Announced: New Events with Dr. Goodall

June 2, 2022