New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

New Hampshire House Bill HB1325

Introduced
12/6/23  
Refer
12/6/23  

Caption

Relative to allowing private ownership of small tailed monkeys, raccoons, foxes, otters, skunks, and kangaroos.

Impact

If passed, HB1325 would significantly change the current state laws governing wildlife ownership. Currently, many of these animals require special permits for private ownership, primarily due to concerns over their care and the implications for public health and safety. By eliminating the permit requirement, the bill may raise concerns about the potential consequences of having these species in domestic environments, including issues related to wildlife management and ethics in animal care.

Summary

House Bill 1325 (HB1325) seeks to amend the existing regulations regarding the ownership of certain wild animals in the state. Specifically, the bill proposes to allow private ownership of small tailed monkeys, raccoons, foxes, otters, skunks, and red tailed kangaroos as companion animals without the need for a permit. This legislative shift is aimed at making it easier for individuals to keep these animals as pets, which may lead to an increase in their popularity as companion animals among residents.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1325 appears to be mixed, with proponents advocating for the rights of individuals to own these animals and to expand the definition of allowable companion animals. Supporters argue that responsibly owned exotic pets can provide companionship and fulfill human-animal bond needs. Conversely, there are strong concerns from wildlife advocates and animal rights groups who argue that allowing such ownership could lead to unethical breeding practices, abandonment, and other welfare issues for the animals.

Contention

Key points of contention include the implications of reduced regulations on animal welfare and public safety. Critics express fears that individuals may not have the adequate knowledge or resources to properly care for these animals, leading to potential neglect or abandonment. Furthermore, opponents of the bill emphasize the risk of increased interactions between escaped domestic wild animals and native wildlife, potentially disrupting local ecosystems. This debate highlights the balance between individual freedom regarding pet ownership and the responsibility towards animal welfare and ecological integrity.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NH HB225

Relative to prohibiting the use of currency that could be detrimental to privacy rights.

NH HB144

Restoring firearm ownership rights to ex-felons.

NH HB119

Relative to homestead food operation licensure and making provisions for the sale of meat from uninspected bison, elk, or red deer.

NH HB374

Relative to the application process for driver's licenses and the privacy of motor vehicle records.

NH HB91

Relative to privacy obligations of the department of health and human services.

NH HB351

Relative to the negligent storage of firearms and relative to firearm safety devices.

NH SB14

Relative to the use of game cameras and relative to penalties for controlled drug violations.

NH HB434

Relative to flying drones in state parks.

NH HB348

Relative to the sale of raw milk and products made with raw milk.

NH HB205

Relative to testing private wells.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.