Teli Spyropoulos, President of one of the largest fur retailers, BC International Group Inc., challenged the claim that she had not heard from fur industry representatives and shared his letter opposing her bill.
In his letter, he shares some of the consequences of what would happen if AB 44were to pass. Hundreds of jobs would be lost and it would have an indirect impact on hundreds more who provide ancillary services to furriers. Ceasing operations within the state of California would have a ripple effect across the country. This would not only affect individuals, but entire families.
The fur trade is one of the oldest industries in America. It comprises over 1000 fur retailers, 100 manufacturers and over 200 small family farmers as well as many trappers. Their businesses, jobs and livelihoods depend on the industry and many of them have spent decades building up their businesses.
Liberals who support the prohibition of drugs because of the unintended consequences are supporting this bill without an understanding of its possible consequences. This could include an unregulated black market which is likely to result in sale of endangered pelts and an increase in the value of furs. Cruelty to animals could increase with illicit buyers and sellers having little interest in the history behind the furs.
Fur farming is a sustainable form of animal agriculture
In the U.S., animals on fur farms are often fed leftover chicken and other proteins from food processing plants, thereby diverting millions of pounds of waste that would otherwise end up in landfills. The manure from the animals on the fur farms becomes rich fertilizer for local agricultural crops. There is minimal wastage as by-products are used to create many other products. For example, oils are used in cosmetics and meat is used as bait in the crab industry. Retail fur sales in California currently exceed $300 million, according to fur retailers.
Lies animal activists tell
Animal activists claim that animals are skinned alive for their fur. This is not true – it is not only immoral and illegal but it wouldn’t make good business sense as the fur would be damaged. Animal activists accuse fur farmers of cruelty and secrecy. They say that fur farming is not regulated. In fact, farmers who mistreat their animals can be prosecuted under animal-cruelty laws. Why would activists lie? Their real goal could be to set the stage to block the use of animals for other products, including wearable products but ultimately for food as well. Do we really want the government to be able to tell us what we can wear and eat?
