OLYMPIA – Sen. Kevin Ranker, D-Orcas Island, received a Humane State Legislator Award from the Humane Society of the United States Tuesday.

Each year, the society recognizes state legislators across the country who have initiated path-breaking animal protection legislation and demonstrably advanced reform in the policy-making arena.

Ranker was recognized for sponsoring Senate Bill 5688, which prohibits people from selling, trading or distributing shark fins or shark derivative products. The bill was signed into law last year and will spare countless sharks from the cruel and wasteful practice of shark finning.

“Shark populations along the west coast continue to shrink by the thousands,” said Ranker. “This is a new way to combat the problem that will make a positive difference in the long term for our shark populations.”

Ranker is the first Washington legislator in three years to receive the distinction.

“I would like to thank the society for this prestigious award and for their leadership across the country when it comes to humane practices and environmental stewardship,” said Ranker. “I’m proud that Washington ranks sixth in the nation when it comes to protection of wildlife and look forward to continuing to lead the nation on this critical issue.”

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For more information, Michael Althauser, 360-786-7326