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2020 SESSION
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:
1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding in Chapter 65 of Title 3.2 an article numbered 14, consisting of sections numbered 3.2-6594, 3.2-6595, and 3.2-6596, as follows:
§ 3.2-6594. Definitions.
As used in this article:
"Dangerous captive animal" means any bear, cougar, jaguar, leopard, lion, nonhuman primate, or tiger, or any hybrid of any such animal. "Dangerous captive animal" does not include a clouded leopard.
"Direct contact" means physical contact or proximity where physical contact is possible, including an opportunity for photography without a permanent physical barrier designed to prevent physical contact between the public and a dangerous captive animal.
"Keeper" means any person, as defined in § 1-230, who owns, has custody of, or is in control of a dangerous captive animal.
§ 3.2-6595. Direct contact with dangerous captive animals prohibited.
It is unlawful for any keeper to provide or offer to provide to any member of the public, for free or for a cost, direct contact with a dangerous captive animal.
§ 3.2-6596. Violation; penalty.
Any person who violates any provision of this article is guilty of a Class 3 misdemeanor and is subject to a fine of not more than $500.
2. That the provisions of this act shall become effective on July 1, 2021.