SC H4461

Expands South Carolina's existing law on large wild cats, non-native bears, and great apes to include all primates (except humans) as "covered animals" subject to possession restrictions

Prohibits direct contact between the public and covered animals and requires possessors to notify animal control at least 72 hours before selling or transferring an animal

Grandfathers individuals who legally possessed primates (other than great apes) before January 1, 2026, allowing them to keep those animals for life but prohibiting acquisition of additional covered animals after that date

Requires registration with local animal control, including a one-time $500 site fee and $100 annual fee per animal, along with submission of a contingency plan for animal escapes

Exempts USDA-licensed facilities, research institutions, veterinary hospitals, and circuses from the restrictions, with those obtaining Class C licenses after January 1, 2026, permitted to keep and acquire covered animals