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STATE OF OKLAHOMA
1st Session of the 59th Legislature (2023)
HOUSE BILL 2593 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 numberin g, reads as follows:
A. This act shall be known and may be cited as the "Endangered
Ark Foundation Preservation Act ".
B. The purpose of this act is to preserve the sa fety, health,
and well-being of elephants in Oklahoma.
C. As used in the Endangered 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 a nimal reproduction; and
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2. "Protected contact" means the contact between an elephant
and its 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 21 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 Nov ember 1, 2023.
59-1-5559 JL 12/12/22