German Decree Impacting Fur Farming Overturned

IN1997, DR. MADELEINE MARTIN, Commissioner for the protection of animals for the State of Hessen in Germany, passed a decree which, in effect, made the farming of fur unviable.

The last remaining fur farmer in Hessen, a chinchilla farmer, challenged the ruling. After a two-year battle, the courts found in his favor, according to an announcement issued Oct. 2 by the German Fur Institute. The principal reason given for the ruling was that the Commissioner acted outside her legal authority.

The costs of the case will be borne by the taxpayers of the State of Hessen. There is no possibility of an appeal.

Other German states, such as Bavaria and Rheinland Pfalz, copied the decree but will most likely refrain from applying it so as not to be taken to court.

For further information contact: Teresa Platt, Executive Director, Fur Commission USA, PMB 506, 826 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118-2698 USA, (619) 575-0139, (619) 575-5578/fax, furfarmers@aol.com, www.furcommission.com.

To take a cyber-tour of a fur farm, visit Fur Commission USA's Fur on Film at http://www.furcommission.com/video/index.htm

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