Rhode Island became the 11th state in America to ban the ownership or sale of shark fins. The rule, which passed unanimously in both the state senate and house, went into effect on Jan. 1.
The bill was sponsored by State Senator Susan Sosnowski and signed into law by Governor Gina Raimondo (D). Offenders could face fine of up to $1,000 or possible jail time. Commercial vessels could also have their licenses suspended or revoked.
The action of shark finning has been banned in all federal waters of the United States since 2010. Rhode Island joins California, Hawaii, New York, Oregon, Texas and Washingtonas states that has made the trade in shark fins illegal.