The state Assembly came to the defense of endangered sharks by approving AB376, which bans the sale, trade or possession of shark fins. The bill touches on a politically and culturally sensitive debate, as some Asian groups have been eating shark fin soup for millennia to mark special occasions. The bill passed 63-8 with bipartisan support and opposition. Its author, Assemblyman Paul Fong, says the sharks are mutilated and the practice puts them at risk of extinction, which would wreak havoc on underwater ecosystems. "The science is unambiguous: Sharks are in trouble," he added.

Critics argue that are sufficient federal protections are already in place. Finning is illegal in U.S. waters, but lawmakers are powerless to halt the practice in international waters. Huffman said that's why they went after the market for shark fins in California, which has the highest demand for shark fins outside Asia.

Some opponents counter that the legislation goes too far in dictating what Californians can eat. "This bill would be the first bill to ban a California food product," said Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, who voted against it. Others stated the legislation doesn't go far enough, as sharks can still be sold legally in California provided the fins have been removed.

An expensive delicacy, shark fin soup can cost $80 a bowl, while the fins alone can sell for up to $600 a pound. Advocates say the finning industry kills 73 million sharks each year. The controversy has drawn the likes of Chinese basketball star Yao Ming to publicly support outlawing the practice. The legislation, which would take effect Jan. 1, 2013, now goes to the Senate for consideration

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