HB 5989 Summary

• Amends the Large Carnivore Act (2000 PA 274) to modify notice requirements when large carnivores are seized by law enforcement officers.

• Changes notice delivery method beginning January 1, 2015 from certified mail and newspaper publication to certified mail and tier B public notice as provided in the local government public notice act.

• Requires law enforcement to return seized large carnivores to owners within 7 days if no warrant is issued, charges are dismissed, the court denies forfeiture, the owner is acquitted, or a court orders return.

• Maintains that forfeited large carnivores must be transferred to wildlife sanctuaries, animal shelters, or accredited zoos, with exceptions allowing humane euthanization if the animal killed or injured a human or other animal.

• Makes the bill's effectiveness contingent on enactment of House Bill 5560 or Senate Bill No. ____.