California just became the first state to ban both the breeding of orcas and using them in theatrical shows for entertainment purposes. Starting in June 2017, they will only be allowed to participate in "educational presentations," much to the chagrin of SeaWorld in San Diego.

Governor Jerry Brown signed the Orca Protection and Safety Act into law on Tuesday, making history and setting a precedent for killer whales and their treatment in the rest of the 49 states. The new law comes after many years of controversy regarding the capture, breeding, and use of the large, majestic creatures by humans for entertainment.

Though SeaWorld has already committed to making similar changes to their policies, the state law has solidified those commitments by ensuring that the theme park can't change their mind or tweak their changes.

The park has said that it will begin using the whales in "educational orca encounters starting in San Diego next year," said the company, adding in an email to National Geographic, "Guests will feel like they are taking part in a live documentary with a modified habitat for a more natural-looking setting."