New Jersey Assembly Bill A5386

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

Caption

Expands list of animals prohibited from use in traveling animal acts; limits certain exceptions to apply only at educational institutions.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws regarding animal rights and the treatment of wild and exotic animals within entertainment sectors. By eliminating previous exclusions that allowed some domestic species to be used in traveling acts, the legislation emphasizes a commitment to better animal welfare standards. The restrictions now apply directly to owners and handlers of these animals, placing them under penalties if found in violation of the law. The intent is to minimize the distress and potential harm inflicted on the animals involved in these acts.

Summary

Bill A5386 amends 'Nosey's Law' (P.L.2018, c.141) to expand the list of animals prohibited from being used in traveling animal acts. The bill aims to enhance animal welfare by broadening the definition of 'wild or exotic animal' to include additional classifications, specifically lagomorphs (like rabbits and hares) and rodents. This legislative change seeks to protect these animals from being exploited for entertainment purposes in traveling exhibitions, essentially making it illegal to use a wider variety of species in such acts.

Contention

There are potential points of contention surrounding the implications of this bill. Some may argue that it restricts the ability of certain entertainment businesses to operate as they wish, advocating for a balance between animal rights and commercial entertainment rights. Concerns may also arise regarding the limitations on exceptions for educational outreach purposes. The bill mandates that any permitted use of these animals must be strictly for bona fide educational or conservation efforts conducted by recognized institutions, potentially limiting some entertainment venues' operations and their ability to use these animals in performances.