The Marine and Aquatic Native Threatened Animal (MANTA) Protection Act (Florida)

​The Animal Legal Defense Fund​ supports ​this bill.

Sponsors:​ State Sen. Ileana Garcia (R-36) and State Rep. Lindsay Cross (D-20)

​Introduction Date:​ January 8, 2025

The Florida Legislature is considering the Marine At-Risk Native Endangered or Threatened Animal (MANTA) Protection Act (S.B. 988/H.B. 1171), a bill that would prohibit the capture of threatened and endangered marine species from Florida waters for exhibition and display.

Although certain animals, such as manta rays, are protected under the federal Endangered Species Act, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) permits their capture through Marine Special Activity Licenses, allowing endangered or threatened species to be taken from the wild and exported to other states or countries for public display.

These animals can — and often do — suffer and die as a result of capture and subsequent captivity. Manta rays live approximately 40 to 50 years in the wild, with some individuals living even longer. They naturally dive to depths of around 450 meters and are also highly migratory, traveling long distances as part of their natural behavior. The vastness and complexity of their natural environment and physical needs cannot be artificially recreated in captivity. Moreover, manta rays have complex social structures and interactions that are severely limited in captivity, leading to significant, chronic stress and poor welfare.

Why is this legislation important?

In July 2025, FWC approved the capture of a threatened manta ray to be exported to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. The capture was recorded by a bystander, whose video showed the manta ray struggling to break free as they were pulled into a boat with a fishing net. The witnesses who recorded the incident commented that the animal was clearly exhausted and in pain. This capture followed a prior incident in which two manta rays were taken from Florida waters in 2023, with one ultimately dying shortly after being captured.

If enacted, the MANTA Protection Act would prevent the needless and harmful capture of threatened and endangered wild animals. These animals are removed from already dwindling populations and their capture further reduces the odds of population recovery. The legislation would also align Florida laws with the Endangered Species Act, which does not allow for taking animals for exhibition or educational reasons.

​​For more information about animal protection legislation​ in Florida ​and opportunities to take action for animals, visit our Florida state page.