Rep. Ted Lieu Introduces Bill to Ban Glue Traps for Rodents
In a move to protect animals and promote humane treatment, Rep. Ted Lieu, D-Calif., has introduced the “Glue Trap Prohibition Act,” a bill that seeks to ban the possession and use of glue traps for catching rodents. The bill is gaining support from organizations like PETA, the Humane Society Legislative Fund, and the Humane Society of the United States.
Glue traps, which are boards coated with adhesive, are often used to catch and kill pests. However, Lieu argues that they are among the cruelest methods of eliminating rodents and pose a public health risk. He highlights that animals caught in these traps may tear off their skin or even gnaw off their own limbs in an attempt to escape. Those that don’t manage to escape suffer from blood loss, suffocation, or dehydration.
Lieu’s bill is inspired by the city of West Hollywood in California, which became the first city in the country to ban glue traps. Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif., is co-sponsoring the bill.
Glue Traps Already Banned in Several Countries
According to Lieu, glue traps are already banned in England, Iceland, Ireland, and New Zealand. They are also prohibited in over 100 airports across the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against using glue traps due to the potential spread of diseases by ensnared rodents.
Lieu’s bill aims to provide an alternative to these inhumane traps. He emphasizes that there are numerous other ways to trap small animals without causing them prolonged suffering. As a proud member of the Animal Protection Caucus, Lieu believes it’s time to put an end to the needless suffering of these animals.
Support from Animal Welfare Organizations
The introduction of Lieu’s bill has garnered support from various animal welfare organizations. Tracy Reiman, the executive vice chair of PETA, commends Lieu for showing compassion and leadership. Reiman believes that the bill can help protect vulnerable species and save tens of thousands of small animals from injury, disability, and death caused by these primitive and cruel traps.
Dr. James Jensvold, the president of Democrats for the Protection of Animals, echoes the sentiment that glue traps are cruel and indiscriminate. He believes that these traps are responsible for more suffering than any other wildlife control product on the market. Dr. Jensvold emphasizes that any animal, whether it’s the intended target or a beloved pet, can get caught in these traps and suffer a slow and agonizing death. He calls for the United States to join the growing number of countries that have already banned these outdated and unethical devices.
Conclusion
Rep. Ted Lieu’s proposed bill to ban glue traps for rodents aims to prioritize animal welfare and promote humane alternatives. With support from organizations like PETA, the Humane Society Legislative Fund, and the Humane Society of the United States, Lieu’s bill could make a significant impact in reducing the suffering of small animals caught in these traps. As more countries and cities take steps to ban glue traps, the United States has an opportunity to join them in promoting compassion and empathy towards wildlife.
