Knowingly entering restricted animal areas without permission would bring charges

People who know they lack permission would face charges for entering locked or restricted animal areas or bypassing protective barriers. This covers enclosures maintained by zoos, aquariums, certain animal collections called menageries, and holders of wildlife breeding permits. Workers, volunteers, and officials would be exempt while carrying out authorized duties. Entry during a genuine emergency to prevent imminent death or serious bodily injury would also be exempt. If enacted, these rules would take effect in 60 days.

The offense would normally be a third-degree misdemeanor. An evacuation of visitors or an emergency response by facility staff or public responders would make it a second-degree misdemeanor. Injury, death, or substantial risk of either to an animal, employee, emergency responder, or member of the public would make it a third-degree felony. If enacted, these charge levels would take effect in 60 days.

Courts would order people convicted of this offense to repay costs the facility incurred. Covered costs include recovering and treating animals, responding to emergencies, and repairing enclosures or handling disruptions to facility operations. Repayment would be required in addition to other penalties. If enacted, the repayment requirement would take effect in 60 days.