West Hollywood nears approval of first fur ban in U.S.

Opponents say nearly half of the 200 apparel stores in town sell at least some fur items, and that merchandise made with animal pelts is estimated to account for up to $2 million in revenues for those businesses this year.

One of the leading critics of the proposed ordinance is the Fur Information Council of America, an industry trade group that happens to be based in West Hollywood.

But the city's famously left-leaning political establishment seems intent on fully embracing an animal rights cause that has largely been the domain of angry, sign-waving protesters outside shop windows.

Some details of the ordinance, including civil penalties that would be imposed against merchants caught violating it, remain to be worked out at Monday's meeting, supporters say. Also unclear was how it would be enforced.

As tentatively approved last Tuesday, the measure would outlaw the sale of any garment made "in whole or part from the pelt or skin of an animal with its hair, wool or fur," and would take effect on June 30, 2012.

The bill cites as explicit examples furs made from a fox, mink, rabbit, bear, seal or chinchilla. Supporters said the council is considering an exemption for "vintage" garments containing fur.