IN HB1332

Prohibits persons from possessing, selling, transferring, or breeding dangerous wild animals, defined as primates (except humans), certain big cats, wolves, bears, hyenas, and their hybrids, effective July 1, 2017.

Prohibits owners from allowing public direct contact with dangerous wild animals regardless of age, and requires zoological parks or circuses with Class C USDA licenses to maintain $250,000 liability insurance, escape plans, and staff without animal abuse convictions.

Allows persons lawfully possessing dangerous wild animals before July 1, 2017 to continue possession if they register annually, maintain $250,000 liability insurance, develop escape and succession plans, and do not acquire additional animals.

Establishes procedures for law enforcement to seize or impound illegally held dangerous wild animals, with court hearings within 10 days to determine forfeiture, and requires forfeited animals be transferred to zoological parks or wildlife sanctuaries.

Creates criminal penalties of Class A misdemeanor for knowing or intentional violations, and Level 6 felony for willful misconduct or gross negligence in animal containment causing serious injury or death; allows cities, towns, counties, and townships to adopt more stringent local restrictions.