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STATE OF OKLAHOMA
2nd Session of the 58th Legislature (2022)
HOUSE BILL 3281 By: Humphrey
AS INTRODUCED
An Act relating to animals; creating the Endangered
Ark Foundation Preservation Act; providing purpose;
defining terms; exempting certa in acts from cruelty
to animals; providing for codification; and providing
an effective date.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA:
SECTION 1. NEW LAW A new section of law to be codified
in the Oklahoma Statutes as Section 1685.2 of Title 21, unless there
is created a duplication in nu mbering, reads as follows:
A. This section shall be known and may be cited as the
"Endangered Ark Foundation Preservation Act ".
B. The purpose of this act is to preserve th e safety, health,
and well-being of elephants in Oklahoma.
C. As used in the Enda ngered Ark Foundation Preservation Act:
1. "Free contact" means the use of tools and techniques such as
a guide and tether to help elephants cope with certain conditions or
as necessary during intensive procedures associated with treating
chronic illnesses or animal reproduction; and
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2. "Protected contact" means the contact between elephant and
handler through a barrier such as a chute or an elephant restraint
device.
D. It shall not be considered cruelty to animals as provided in
Section 1685 of Title 2 1 of the Oklahoma Statutes for licensed
operators of a nonprofit entity caring for elephants to practice
free contact and protected contact.
SECTION 2. This act shall become effective November 1, 2022.
58-2-9451 JL 12/15/21