California Tried to Stop Selling Genetically Engineered 'Unicorns'
Summary
A proposed California law called the “Ethics Over Aesthetics Act” aimed to ban the sale of genetically engineered pets modified only for looks, such as glowing rabbits and unicorns. The bill would have allowed genetic changes for health reasons but has stalled in the state legislature despite wide support from lawmakers and animal groups.Key Facts
- The bill is Assembly Bill 1382 and was introduced by Assembly member Leticia Castillo.
- It would ban selling genetically engineered pets altered just for appearance, like glowing rabbits or animals with unusual colors.
- Pets covered would include common animals like dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, fish, and reptiles.
- Penalties for violations could be fines of at least $5,000 per animal.
- Genetic changes for health benefits or hypoallergenic traits would still be allowed.
- The law would not ban all genetic engineering, only changes made purely for cosmetic reasons.
- The bill passed the Assembly unanimously and had strong early support in Senate committees.
- Despite this, the bill stalled and has not become law yet.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
