Aquatic Animal Law (LAW-927)

The Aquatic Animal Law course is a two-week online summer course. It will present an overview of the laws and regulations affecting aquatic animals as well as analysis of areas needing regulation. The course will consider federal law (including the Marine Mammal Protection Act, Animal Welfare Act, Endangered Species Act) as well as state anti-cruelty laws and some local ordinances (including those related to zoning, breeding, transportation, and display). It will also include examination of the scientific underpinnings of legal decision-making with regard to aquatic species. The course will look at the application of law, or lack thereof, in contexts including: agriculture, research, entertainment, and companion animals. The course will also briefly review some international laws and treaties.

As an online offering, the course will consist of a combination of pre-recorded lectures, live real-time lectures, in-class assignments and discussion.

Kathy Hessler

Clinical Professor of Law and Animal Law Clinic Director