It’s Now Illegal to Farm Octopus in California Here’s Why [Video]

It’s officially illegal to farm octopus in the state of California. 

On Friday, Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the bipartisan bill (which had zero opponents) that criminalizes the farming of octopuses for human consumption, based on the ideas that the aquatic animals are “highly intelligent,” have “long-term memory,” and have “have a well-developed nervous system.”

And, as the Los Angeles Times importantly noted, the bill also bans business owners and operators from “knowingly participating” in the sale of an octopus that has specifically been raised to be eaten by humans. 

“Octopuses are highly intelligent, curious, problem-solving animals. They are conscious, sentient beings that exhibit cognitive and behavioral complexity and are capable of experiencing pain, stress, and fear, as well as pleasure, equanimity, and social bonds,” the bill’s text reads in part. It adds, “Octopuses have a well-developed nervous system, large brains relative to their body size, and a high level of problem-solving ability. They are known for …