Update: Sadly, this legislation did not complete the legislative process prior to adjournment.
Bill Description: If this bill passes, it will require the registration within 5 days of coming into possession of certain dangerous wild animals as “pets,” including lions and other large wild cats, wolves, bears, and nonhuman primates. In addition, the animals would need to be microchipped or otherwise identifiable, and possessors would be prohibited from taking the animals to public property or commercial enterprises and from allowing public contact with the animals.[teaserbreak]
These animals are potentially dangerous and do not adjust well to a captive environment. Across the country, many incidents have been reported where exotic animals held in private hands have attacked humans and other animals. One incident in 2006 in Sikeston involved a boy who was attacked by a “pet” vervet monkey living in the neighborhood. Because this legislation helps to limit the public’s exposure to injury from these animals, it is a step in the right direction.