Fulton reconsiders elephant bullhook ban

The elephant bullhook debate will be back in front of the Fulton County Commission on Wednesday. Commissioner Robb Pitts wants to ban circus trainers from using the sharp-tipped instruments, which animal rights groups argue are used to poke, prod and beat elephants bloody. Trainers say they’re needed to give the animals instructions.

The measure was voted down 4-3 in November, but Pitts may have the needed fourth vote from co-sponsor Joan Garner. The rule would only apply to unincorporated south Fulton, not to Atlanta where Philips Arena is located.