POLICY POSITIONS

The SUVERIA Foundation’s policy positions reflect its mission to promote the welfare and freedom of cetaceans and to advance public policies grounded in scientific understanding, ethical considerations, and the public interest. As a nonprofit social welfare organization, the Foundation supports legislative and regulatory frameworks that strengthen protections for marine mammals and promote responsible stewardship of marine ecosystems. The positions outlined below represent formally adopted views of the organization.

LEGISLATIVE CETACEAN LAWS

FOR A BETTER FUTURE FOR ANIMALS IN CAPTIVITY

SWIMS ACT

The SUVERIA Foundation supports the Strengthening Welfare in Marine Settings (SWIMS) Act of 2022, which would end the future capture and breeding of whales for public display. We view this legislation as an important measure to advance cetacean welfare and to align federal policy with current scientific and ethical standards.

ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT

The SUVERIA Foundation supports the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 as a key legal framework for the protection of endangered and threatened cetacean species. While not cetacean-specific, the ESA’s protections against harm and habitat degradation have played an important role in conservation efforts for species such as the North Atlantic right whale.

MARINE MAMMAL PROTECTION ACT

The SUVERIA Foundation supports the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) of 1972 as a cornerstone of marine mammal protection in the United States. The Act establishes comprehensive prohibitions on the unauthorized taking and harassment of marine mammals, including cetaceans, and provides oversight through the Marine Mammal Commission. We view the MMPA as an essential framework for the conservation and welfare of marine mammal populations.