The state House of Representatives has voted to ban the use of elephants and big cats at the circus and other touring events.
The House vote was unanimous, and the measure would not apply to zoos or places where the animals are considered residents.
Animal rights activists have been pushing Massachusetts lawmakers to enact such a ban for decades.
If the bill is also approved by the Senate and signed by the governor, Massachusetts would be the eleventh state to ban the use of large animals in traveling shows.
(Photo by Hannes Magerstaedt/Getty Images)
Photo: Hannes Magerstaedt / Getty Images Entertainment / Getty Images