NC H66

Amends G.S. 113-272.5(a) to clarify that wildlife captivity licenses may be issued for scientific, educational, exhibition, or other purposes, and requires the Executive Director to verify animals were not acquired unlawfully or merely as pets.

Modifies G.S. 113-274(c) to expand the captivity permit to authorize temporary possession of live wildlife for scientific, educational, exhibition, or other purposes pending action on a captivity license or following its denial or termination.

Adds G.S. 19A-1.1(7) exemption allowing licensed sportsmen to capture, hold, and display wild animals in captivity for annual, seasonal, or cultural events, provided the animal is returned to the wild at or near its capture location.

Adds venue requirement to G.S. 19A-2 specifying that civil actions for animal protection must be filed in the superior court of the county where the alleged violation occurred.

Effective upon enactment; ratified February 25, 2013 and approved March 6, 2013.