Bill > S490

This bill proposes to prohibit the use of wild and exotic animals in performances within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The key provisions include: - Defining "wild animal" and "exotic animal" to cover a broad range of non-domestic species, such as primates, bears, and large mammals. - Making it unlawful for any person to cause a performance of a wild or exotic animal on public or private property in Massachusetts. - Providing exemptions for accredited zoos, aquariums, and research facilities, as well as for certain educational outreach programs. - Empowering various state agencies and officials to enforce the law, including the ability to inspect facilities and impose civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation. - Granting the Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety the authority to promulgate rules and deny, suspend, or revoke licenses or permits for noncompliance. - Establishing an effective date of 180 days after enactment, allowing time for the Commissioner to implement the necessary regulations. The purpose of this bill is to protect wild and exotic animals from cruel treatment and to safeguard the public from the inherent dangers of using these animals in traveling exhibitions and performances.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S490