CT SB00227

Prohibits importing, possessing, selling, offering for sale, or transporting the "big five African species" (African elephant, African lion, African leopard, black rhinoceros, and white rhinoceros) or any parts, products, or offspring thereof in the state.

Violation constitutes a felony punishable by a fine of up to $10,000 and imprisonment of up to two years.

Provides exceptions for specimens lawfully possessed before the effective date (with certificate of possession), museum collections with federal tax-exempt status, and specimens distributed to trust beneficiaries or heirs (with certificate obtained within 180 days).

Authorizes law enforcement to search for, seize, and forfeit specimens and related property used in violations; forfeited specimens shall be destroyed.

Exempts ivory trade, zoological institutions, and circuses from the prohibition; clarifies that the law does not restrict interstate transportation of endangered species with valid permits from other states.