Israel is not a huge fur market, for apparently, two reasons- “Jewish faith forbids undue suffering for animals,” and it’s hot in Israel.

Banning fur has the support of the majority of Israelis, but a religious exemption was sought for ultra-orthodox Jews, who wear the shtreimel– a hat of sable fur.  This is known as a cultural exemption.  Where have I heard this one before…. oh right, everywhere.

The legislation did not pass in the Knesset, for a very logical reason.

Shas MP Chaim Amsellem said that as ultra-orthodox men accounted for 90 per cent of the Israeli fur trade, there was no point in having a ban with a cultural exemption.  They want a law that will only affect 10 per cent of the fur trade.  There’s no logic in legislating a bill that doesn’t do what it’s supposed to.

I like it.  Eliminate the cultural exemption and send it back through.  As stated, “Jewish faith forbids undue suffering for animals,” so what’s the hold up?  Make the ugly hat out of something else, already.

via theaustralian.com.au