Michigan House Bill HB6280

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/10/24
• Refer: 12/10/24

Caption

Animals: animal shelters; cross-references to 1969 PA 287 in the large carnivore act; update. Amends sec. 2 of 2000 PA 274 (MCL 287.1102).

Impact

If enacted, HB 6280 would have significant implications for the handling, breeding, and care of large carnivores in Michigan. It aligns existing laws with contemporary practices in animal care and regulation, ensuring that frameworks governing these animals are robust and enforceable. The bill's provisions indicate a commitment to responsible animal ownership while also acknowledging the complexities of handling large carnivores and their associated risks.

Summary

House Bill 6280 seeks to amend the Large Carnivore Act of Michigan, specifically targeting definitions and regulations pertaining to large carnivores, which include specific species of cats and bears both wild and captive bred. The bill introduces updated provisions regarding animal control officers and shelters, emphasizing the roles of various authorities in managing and regulating large carnivores within the state. By refining these definitions, the bill aims to improve clarity in enforcement and compliance with state wildlife laws.

Contention

While the bill generally seeks to bolster protections and regulations surrounding large carnivores, there may be points of contention regarding the extent of control exercised by local animal control officials versus state regulations. Stakeholders may debate the adequacy of current licensing requirements for breeding and owning large carnivores and whether the amended definitions sufficiently address public safety and animal welfare concerns. Additionally, the potential burden on animal shelters and local entities tasked with implementing these regulations could become a focal point for discussion among lawmakers and the public.