House Bill No. by Representative Geymann amends R.S. 56:126(E) to modify the regulations surrounding the Wildlife Rehabilitation Program in Louisiana. The current law prohibits individuals involved in wildlife rehabilitation from using animals for promotional or commercial purposes. This bill introduces a new provision that allows not-for-profit organizations dedicated to wildlife rehabilitation to utilize photographs or videos of the animals for advertising and promotional activities. This includes soliciting donations, gifts, or grants from individuals and entities through various media platforms.

The proposed changes aim to enhance the ability of not-for-profit organizations to raise funds and awareness for their wildlife rehabilitation efforts while maintaining protections against exploitation. The bill clarifies that while exploitation for commercial purposes remains unlawful, the use of wildlife for promotional purposes by these organizations is now permissible under specific conditions.

Statutes affected:
HB724 Original: 56:126(E)