Truth matters. Community matters. Your support makes both possible. LAist is one of the few places where news remains independent and free from political and corporate influence. Stand up for truth and for LAist. Make your tax-deductible donation now.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Shark Fin Soup State Ban Goes Into Effect Today
Shark fin soup (Photo by Jose115/Shutterstock)
Shark fin soup is now illegal in California.
A new state law banning the possession or sale of shark fins takes effect today.
ABC News reports that Chinese neighborhood groups are continuing to fight the legislation in federal court since shark fin soup has long been a Chinese favorite.
The law, authored by Assemblymen Paul Fong, D-Cupertino, and Jared Huffman, D-San Rafael, went into effect in January, but had exemptions allowing the sale of previously obtained shark fins until the end of June. Now, even those can no longer be sold.
A lawsuit filed last July by the San Francisco-based Chinatown Neighborhood Association and Asian Americans for Political Advancement claims the legislation discriminates against Chinese Americans.
The lawsuit argues that shark fin soup is "a ceremonial centerpiece of traditional Chinese banquets" and is used in several key celebrations, such as Chinese New Year.
The case will return to federal court on August 14, said attorney Joseph Breall, who is representing the Chinatown Neighborhood Association. He says, The fin laws are pre-empted by federal law. If you have a legally caught shark, you should be able to possess its fin." He's hopeful the appeal passes in August. In the meantime, everyone is urged to get rid of their shark fins.
Sponsored message
Related:
California Senate Says 'No, Thank You' to Shark Fin Soup
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
