State Senate approves shark fin ban
SPRINGFIELD — Illinois may become the first state without an ocean shore to ban possession of shark fin.
The state Senate approved the ban by 41-13 on Tuesday. It now goes to Gov. Pat Quinn.
Shark fin is a pricey delicacy used to make soup long considered a status symbol. Environmentalists say that harvesting fins is inhumane and a threat to shark populations.
Although shark fins aren’t harvested in Illinois, lawmakers say Chicago’s Chinatown is a hub for the sale and consumption of shark fin in the Midwest. They say a state measure would help reduce demand and prohibit it worldwide, including in China.
Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked.
If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.