Introduced
by
To exempt bear cubs up to 36 weeks old from restrictions on the possession and handling of large carnivores that are older than 20 weeks. This would allow "petting zoos" and operations like Oswald's Bear Ranch in Newberry (whose being shut down led to the bill's introduction) to let members of the public have contact with bear cubs.
Referred to the Committee on Agriculture
Reported without amendment
With the recommendation that the bill pass.
Passed in the Senate 26 to 9 (details)
Referred to the Committee on Agriculture
Reported without amendment
Without amendment and with the recommendation that the bill pass.
Amendment offered
by
To "grandfather" existing bear cub petting establishments, but ban any new ones.
The amendment passed by voice vote
Passed in the House 56 to 52
To exempt current operations that permit the public to come into contact with bear cubs less than 36 weeks old and 90 pounds, but ban new ones. Reportedly the bill was introduced after Oswald's Bear Ranch in Newberry was ordered to halt this activity.
Passed in the Senate 26 to 8 (details)
To concur with the House-passed version of the bill, which "grandfathers" existing bear cub petting operations but prohibits new ones.
