Bill > SB1082

This bill establishes new regulations for petting zoos and animal encounter exhibits in Arizona to promote public health and safety. The legislation requires operators of these venues to ensure that all participants wash their hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer immediately after leaving the animal contact area. Venues must prominently display signs at all entrances and exits instructing visitors about hand hygiene and prohibiting eating or drinking in animal areas. Animal exhibits must be enclosed to prevent unauthorized contact, and each exhibit must have at least one responsible adult supervisor actively monitoring the area and ensuring visitors comply with handwashing requirements. The bill provides an exception for single-day private events at residences, where operators must still post signage and recommend hand hygiene. The Arizona Department of Health Services is authorized to create rules for implementing these regulations and can impose civil penalties up to $100 for violations. The overall goal of this legislation is to reduce the risk of disease transmission between animals and humans in interactive animal settings.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://apps.azleg.gov/BillStatus/BillOverview/83741