This bill amends Nosey's Law (P.L.2018, c.141) to expand the definition of "wild or exotic animals" by removing previous exclusions for certain domestic species, such as cattle, dogs, and horses, from the prohibition on their use in traveling animal acts. The bill also adds two new classifications of animals—lagomorpha (rabbits and hares) and rodentia (rodents)—to the list of animals that cannot be used in these acts. As a result, it will be illegal to use any of these animals in traveling performances, thereby enhancing protections for a broader range of species.

Additionally, the bill modifies the exceptions to the prohibition by limiting them to outreach programs for educational or conservation purposes that are conducted specifically at educational institutions. This change aims to ensure that the use of wild or exotic animals is restricted primarily to legitimate educational contexts, thereby reinforcing the intent of the law to protect these animals from exploitation in traveling acts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 23:2A-16