H811 Summary

• Prohibits possession, sale, transfer, and breeding of dangerous wild animals including wolves, all felids (except domestic cats), bears, hyenas, and primates, effective December 1, 2021.

• Exempts accredited zoos, research facilities, wildlife sanctuaries, circuses, veterinary facilities, and persons who lawfully possessed dangerous wild animals before June 1, 2021, subject to registration and liability insurance requirements of at least $250,000.

• Requires dangerous wild animals to be kept in escape-proof enclosures with operable locks and prohibits public contact within 15 feet without permanent barriers; persons transporting animals must use species-appropriate containers.

• Establishes Class 2 misdemeanor penalties with up to $5,000 civil penalties per violation; Class A1 misdemeanor for animals running loose causing property damage; Class I felony if animal causes serious bodily injury.

• Authorizes law enforcement to seize animals in violation, hold hearings within 14 days, order forfeiture, and humanely euthanize animals if no qualifying institution accepts them; owners liable for all care expenses.