Ban the sale and trade of shark fin in New York State

The practice of %u201Cshark finning%u201D involves the inhumane practice of hunting sharks, removing their fins and tails, and then throwing the often alive shark back into the ocean, where it is left to die.  By taking the fins, which take up less space on a boat than the rest of the low-value shark body, fisherman are able to maximize the amount of shark fin they can store. This practice is utilized due to the high demand for shark fin soup, a pricey dish found in many New York City restaurants.

 

Currently, legislation in New York State regarding banning the sale and trade of shark fin has not been introduced. It's time to change that.

Dear New York State Senate, 

There currently exists a practice in the world that involves the inhumane slaughter of sharks.  This practice known as "shark finning" is very unsustainable for the population of sharks, which in turn directly affects the populations of many other marine species.  Recent legislation passed by President Barack Obama bans the practice of shark finning in United States waters; however, the sale and trade of shark fin in the United States is still very much legal.  

New York City is amongst the highest in terms of demand for shark fin soup, an expensive dish found in many NYC restaurants.  This demand for shark fin is causing the practice of "finning" to continue in many other countries around the world in order to supply the amount demanded.  Shark fins are sold for around $300 per pound.

Besides being inhumane and encouraging an unsustainable practice, "shark finning" has a serious economic cost.  The fact that the production of fins in the United States is limited compared to countries without shark conservation legislation gives us a comparative disadvantage.  The majority of these fins are imported from the countries who are practicing "shark finning" and helping largely to contribute to the gaping trade deficit. That's money that is leaving New York and likely not coming back. 

We, the petitioners, hope that you will create legislation in New York State that puts a ban on the sale and trade of shark fin products, much like the state of Hawaii has already done and California is currently in the process of doing.  We would also like to thank you for taking the time to hear our concerns.
Thank you,
-The Petitioners 
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