Big Cat Public Safety Act (H.R. 263)

Summary

Stops the private ownership and breeding of big cats and ends public handling to protect both animals and people from harm.

What problem does this solve?

Many big cats were kept in unsafe conditions by private owners, which was dangerous for both the animals and the public. This law solves this by banning private ownership and breeding of big cats and stopping risky public contact.

What does this law do?

Bans private possession and breeding of big cats

Makes it illegal for most individuals and entities to own or breed lions, tigers, leopards, snow leopards, jaguars, or cougars.

Ends public contact and cub petting

Forbids the public from having direct physical contact, such as petting or holding, with big cats. This applies to licensed exhibitors and existing private owners.

Allows current owners to keep their animals under strict rules

Permits individuals who owned a big cat before the law was passed to keep their animal, but they must register it with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and cannot breed it or allow public contact.

Creates new penalties for violations

Sets a fine of up to $20,000 and imprisonment for up to 5 years for knowingly violating the new rules on big cat possession and breeding.

Provides exemptions for certain facilities

Allows certain entities like licensed zoos, universities, and wildlife sanctuaries that meet strict criteria to continue possessing big cats for conservation or research.

Who does this affect?

Private owners of big cats
Zoos and animal exhibitors
Wildlife sanctuaries

What is the real world impact?

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Protects animals and the public

Aims to stop the mistreatment of big cats bred for 'cub petting' and to prevent dangerous escapes or attacks by privately owned animals.

When does this start?

This law became effective on December 20, 2022, and sets a specific deadline for current big cat owners to register their animals.

Registration deadline for existing big cats

Individuals or entities who possessed a big cat before the law was passed must register each animal with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service by June 18, 2023 (180 days after enactment).