Big Cat Public Safety Act

3/8/2023, 7:58 PM

Summary of Bill HR 211

Bill 117 HR 211, also known as the Big Cat Public Safety Act, is a piece of legislation introduced in the United States Congress. The purpose of this bill is to address the issue of public safety concerns related to the ownership and breeding of big cats, such as lions, tigers, and leopards, by private individuals.

The bill aims to prohibit the private ownership of big cats and the breeding of these animals for personal possession. It also seeks to restrict the use of big cats in public exhibitions, such as circuses and roadside zoos. The legislation is designed to protect both the public and the animals themselves from potential harm and exploitation.

Supporters of the Big Cat Public Safety Act argue that these animals require specialized care and environments that private individuals may not be equipped to provide. They also point to instances of big cats escaping from captivity and posing a danger to nearby communities as evidence of the need for stricter regulations. Opponents of the bill, however, argue that it infringes on the rights of private individuals to own and breed big cats. They also raise concerns about the potential impact on businesses that rely on the use of these animals for entertainment purposes. Overall, the Big Cat Public Safety Act is a controversial piece of legislation that has sparked debate among lawmakers, animal rights activists, and private individuals who own or work with big cats. Its ultimate fate will depend on the outcome of congressional hearings and votes.

Congressional Summary of HR 211

Big Cat Public Safety Act

This bill revises restrictions on the possession, exhibition, or breeding of big cats (i.e., species of lion, tiger, leopard, cheetah, jaguar, or cougar or any hybrid of such species). For example, the bill permits wildlife sanctuaries to allow direct contact between the public and big cats.

Current Status of Bill HR 211

Bill HR 211 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since January 5, 2021. Bill HR 211 was introduced during Congress 117 and was introduced to the House on January 5, 2021.  Bill HR 211's most recent activity was Referred to the Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife. as of February 18, 2021

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 211

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
0
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 211

Primary Policy Focus

Animals

Potential Impact Areas

Animal protection and human-animal relationshipsCivil actions and liabilityCrimes against animals and natural resourcesMammalsMuseums, exhibitions, cultural centersTrade restrictionsWildlife conservation and habitat protection

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 211

Big Cat Public Safety ActTo amend the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 to clarify provisions enacted by the Captive Wildlife Safety Act, to further the conservation of certain wildlife species, and for other purposes.Big Cat Public Safety Act
Start holding our government accountable!

Comments