FL H1305

Prohibits holding orcas in captivity for any purpose including display, performance, or entertainment effective July 1, 2018, with exceptions for rescue, rehabilitation, and research by qualified institutions.

Bans breeding, impregnation, and artificial insemination of captive orcas, as well as export, transport, movement, or sale of orcas unless authorized by federal law or transferred to North American facilities meeting Animal Welfare Act standards.

Allows orcas in captivity for entertainment purposes on July 1, 2018, to remain in captivity until December 31, 2019, then may be used for educational presentations only.

Establishes civil penalties of up to $100,000 per violation, per day, for intentional or negligent violations, with each day of continuing violation counted as a separate offense.

Exempts bona fide educational or scientific institutions holding orcas for rehabilitation after rescue or stranding, or for research purposes, but requires immediate commission notification and return to the wild when possible.