Bill > SB5065

This bill prohibits the use of certain animals in traveling animal acts by establishing new legal definitions and restrictions. The bill defines "covered animals" as elephants, non-domestic cats, non-human primates, and bears, and defines a "traveling animal act" as any performance where animals are transported between locations in a mobile housing facility. The legislation explicitly forbids any person from allowing covered animals to participate in such performances, with an exception for performances at permanent, USDA-licensed facilities. Violations of this law would be considered a gross misdemeanor, and local cities and counties are permitted to adopt even more restrictive ordinances regarding traveling animal acts. The bill aims to protect specific animal species from potential mistreatment or stress associated with transportation and performance requirements, reflecting growing concerns about animal welfare in entertainment settings. The new legal provisions would be added as a new chapter to Title 9 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW), and the law includes a severability clause ensuring that if any part of the act is found invalid, the rest of the legislation remains in effect.