Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to amend existing Minnesota laws to exempt certain zoos from being classified under fur farm requirements. This means specific licensed zoos won't have to follow regulations meant for fur farms.

Main Provisions

• The bill proposes an amendment to the Minnesota Statutes, specifically section 97A.106.
• It introduces a new subdivision that grants an exemption to certain zoos from the regulations and requirements applicable to fur farms.
• To qualify for the exemption, a zoo must:
  1. Be a licensed exhibitor of regulated animals by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
  2. House animals that are owned by institutions accredited by the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA).
  3. Participate in the AZA's Species Survival Plan.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill modifies the existing statutory requirements by excluding zoos that meet specific criteria from the definition and obligations of a fur farm, which generally involves breeding animals for fur.
• This change will allow eligible zoos greater flexibility in their operations without being subject to fur farm laws, provided they adhere to the outlined standards.

Relevant Terms

exemption, Minnesota Statutes, zoos, fur farm requirements, United States Department of Agriculture, American Zoo and Aquarium Association, Species Survival Plan, regulated animals