Captive wild animals: direct contact: prohibition.
Vote required
Majority
Fiscal committee
No
Appropriation
No
Current location
Water, Parks and Wildlife
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed Assembly
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill prohibits the public from having direct contact with certain captive wild animals, such as bears, elephants, and primates. It defines ‘direct contact’ as physical contact or proximity where contact is possible. The bill establishes civil penalties for violations and allows for suspension or revocation of permits for animals involved. However, it includes exceptions for owners, facility owners, trained professionals, veterinarians, law enforcement, and certain production crew members, as well as at facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Key provisions
- Prohibits public direct contact with specified ‘covered animals’ (bears, elephants, primates, etc.).
- Defines ‘direct contact’ as physical contact or proximity where contact is possible.
- Establishes civil penalties for violations and permit suspension/revocation.
- Creates exceptions for owners, facility staff, veterinarians, law enforcement, and production crews.
- Allows for appeal of permit suspension/revocation to the Fish and Game Commission.
- Exempts contact at facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
- Does not apply to contact with animals during official duties.
- Specifies that the bill is not intended to limit existing animal welfare laws.
Who is affected
- Animal owners
- Zoo and aquarium operators
- The public
- Animal welfare organizations
- Department of Fish and Wildlife
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
1 on record
Primary sponsor
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