Chassidic residents of Israel can hold onto their hats – literally. A new Fur Bill introduced by MK Ronit Tirosh (Kadima) intending to prevent the import of furs will not apply to shtreimlach, the regal fur hat worn by many married Chassidim on the Sabbath and festive occasions.
A Knesset ministerial committee approved the banning of imported rabbit, dog, and cat fur from eastern Asia due to reports of animal cruelty. The proposed law will not affect shtreimel fur importers, as the manufacturers use fur from other animals not included in the bill. However, those who don fedoras made out of rabbit pelt are out of luck.