There will be no more wild animals at circuses in the city, thanks to a bill passed by the City Council.
Animal rights activists applauded when the Council approved the measure yesterday by a vote of 43 to 6.
The bill prevents the use of animals like lions and tigers in circus acts.
But since the Ringling Brothers circus folded, the bill will only affect UniverSoul, a black-owned circus that's popular in minority communities.
Some council members say it could force UniverSoul out of business.
"In a progressive Council, if we've always talk about being progressive, the UniverSoul Circus is the only black-owned, minority-owned circus in America, and we're getting ready to shut them out of New York City," said Councilman Andy King, of the Bronx.
"You can continue to have your circus, but it just can't have the animals that are on the list," said Councilwoman Rosie Mendez, of Manhattan. "The big ones are giraffes, elephants, bears, tigers, lions."
The bill won't take effect until next summer, which allows UniverSoul time prepare for the transition.