Owners of lions, tigers and other large animals would be banned in 2014 from keeping them unless they met strict care standards.
/ WNWO newsfile
COLUMBUS -- An Ohio lawmaker plans to introduce a proposal to ban new ownership of exotic animals today.
The measure would also prohibit people from acquiring additional dangerous wildlife. Zoos, circuses, sanctuaries and research facilities would be exempt.
Owners of lions, tigers and other large animals would be banned in 2014 from keeping them unless they met strict care standards.
"Those just aren't standards that casual owners — where problems are most likely to arise — are going to be able to meet," said Gov. John Kasich's spokesman, Rob Nichols. "It's admittedly not everything we sought or that the working group recommended, but it's most of it and such a huge improvement from where Ohio has been that the governor is comfortable moving forward."
Celebrity zookeeper Jack Hanna criticized lawmakers last month for not yet passing new regulations.
A hearing on the bill is planned for Thursday.
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