how it came together: Big Cat Public Safety Act

On December 20, 2022, United States President Biden signed into law the Big Cat Public Safety Act (BCPSA). The BCPSA prohibits keeping tigers, lions, cougars and other big cats as “pets,” and prohibits dangerous public contact with these species. It was a day IFAW had worked toward for years.

Over the past 15 years, IFAW has rescued more than 200 big cats around the world, working to identify and support legitimate sanctuaries, assist them to improve and increase capacity and rescue, place and provide lifetime care for surrendered and confiscated animals. In 2014 IFAW developed the Wildlife Rescue Network, and in 2017, IFAW and a group of qualified sanctuaries established the Big Cat Sanctuary Alliance, a coalition dedicated to eliminating the private ownership and commercial exploitation of big cats and providing quality lifetime care for wild cats in captivity.

Before the BCPSA was enacted, IFAW worked with state legislators to advance important state policies like New York’s prohibition against dangerous public contact with big cats—but a federal ban remained a top priority. The BCPSA received strong bipartisan support as IFAW actively worked with first responders, student advocates and wildlife rescuers to build support for this critical animal protection and community safety measure.

As the bill gained momentum, IFAW led outreach efforts, convened virtual events, participated in congressional hearings and produced educational materials to share with both lawmakers and the public. Statements of support from emergency responders and guidance on distinguishing true sanctuaries from pseudo-sanctuaries helped to mobilize new audiences. We partnered with actor Minka Kelly, who became an IFAW Global Ambassador, helping to spread awareness of the captive big cat crisis among her many fans and encouraging them to act.

Even with strong, bipartisan support from members of Congress, the BCPSA’s path to becoming law was an uphill climb—and more advocacy and public awareness will be needed to ensure the law is enforced and that individual animals are transitioned into reputable sanctuaries.

The enactment of the BCPSA is a monumental win for captive wildlife and efforts to rein in the dangerous exotic pet trade, thanks to the passion and commitment of IFAW’s supporters. We have now turned our attention to advocating for the resources to implement and enforce the act.

A pacific gray whale closely approaches participants on an IFAW-led excursion in Laguna San Ignacio in March 2023.

Recent Events

Baja Discovery Camp (March 6-10, 2023): IFAW supporters enjoyed up-close encounters with Pacific gray whales during our excursion to Laguna San Ignacio in Baja, Mexico, where IFAW was a partner in protecting this critical calving habitat in 2000. Now, the lagoon has a thriving and wellregulated whale watching ecotourism business. This is one of the few places in the world where whales frequently approach the limited number of vessels allowed into the area.

Ukraine Rescue Team Virtual Update (April 6, 2023): A conversation with the remarkable IFAW staff members at the front lines transforming lives and helping to build toward recovery and regrowth in Ukraine.

IFAW Virtual Update from Azzedine Downes, President & CEO (May 24, 2023): Participants heard directly from our visionary leader, engaging on topics important to our supporters and animal welfare and conservation advocates universally.

Wildlife Photography Exhibit and Discussion, London UK (April 27, 2023): Following a tour of the exhibit, supporters joined Executive Vice President Jason Bell to discuss our work on behalf of animal welfare and landscape conservation. Song of the Whale Tours & Reception, Boston, MA (May 4-6, 2023): Supporters and members of the public joined us aboard the research vessel Song of the Whale, which studies critically endangered North Atlantic right whales.

Upcoming Event

Party for a Porpoise, Osterville, MA (Thursday, August 10, 2023): IFAW’s annual signature event celebrating our marine rescue and conservation work. Proceeds from our experiential auction items, raffle and fund-a-need opportunities will support this work on behalf of marine life on Cape Cod and beyond.

Looking to broaden your connection with IFAW? Join the Global Council, which offers a means of creating innovative, lasting solutions for animals and gives you opportunities to engage with IFAW programs and leadership.