Dolphins to get constitutional protection

PROVIDENCE - The President has signed off on a bill that will see dolphins, whales and porpoises protected by a constitutional amendment that introduces a bill of rights to so-called "non-human persons." That is, animals which have been proven to be so intelligent that they are considered to be self conscious, in the same way humans are.

The findings by scientists that dolphins are akin to humans in many ways has seen the government respond by introducing a bill that would make killing a dolphin attract a charge of murder. It would also be illegal to hold a dolphin in captivity, except to rehabilitate an injured or sick animal prior to release into the wild. Dolphins who were born in captivity may be exempt until more research can be carried out to determine whether a captive born dolphin can survive in the wild.

The government says the wording of the bill does not specifically mention dolphins, instead referring to "non-human persons" but that dolphins will fall under that definition. Other animals may also be added to the definition, including other sea mammals such as whales and porpoises, with high apes such as orang-utans, chimpanzees and gorillas also being considered. In order to be added to the definition, an animal would have to be defined as a non-human person by scientists.

The move was welcomed by animal rights advocates, and even SeaWorld in Redding City, which may be forced to close down as a result of the bill, said that the move was extremely positive and ultimately for the greater good.

SeaWorld is not only an important tourist attraction, it employs more than 100 people. Every effort will be made to keep it open and the government is in talks with SeaWorld to work out a funding package that will allow the park to continue operating.

SeaWorld currently has 3 dolphins and 1 killer whale in captivity. These animals were born there and serious doubts exist over their ability to survive in the wild. Also, the park is home to performing seals.

SeaWorld also has a penguin breeding program as well as several multimedia exhibits and rides. The park is currently looking at ways to extend the multimedia content and non-animal attractions.

The government assures that SeaWorld will remain viable.

Rupert, this thread was inactive for like half a year, read the forum rules, you can't bump inactve threads.

Yes he can.

Really? I thought nobody was alowed to bump inactive topics, after seeing Miguel bump a topic and Thomas got angry, but ok.