SENATE BILL 134

56th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2023

INTRODUCED BY

Roberto "Bobby" J. Gonzales

 

 

 

 

 

AN ACT

RELATING TO EXOTIC ANIMALS; PROHIBITING THE USE OF EXOTIC ANIMALS IN TRAVELING PERFORMANCES; PROVIDING FOR LOCAL ENFORCEMENT.

 

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO:

     SECTION 1. A new section of the Municipal Code is enacted to read:

     "[NEW MATERIAL] PROHIBITION OF THE USE OF EXOTIC ANIMALS IN TRAVELING PERFORMANCES--MUNICIPAL ENFORCEMENT--EXCEPTIONS.--

          A. As used in this section:

                (1) "exotic animal" means an animal that is not a domesticated dog, domesticated cat or livestock; and

                (2) "traveling performance" means a public or private event for which exotic animals are transported and displayed or required to perform tricks or give rides for the entertainment, amusement or benefit of a live audience.

          B. It is unlawful to use exotic animals in a traveling performance; provided that this subsection does not apply to:

                (1) rodeos;

                (2) animal rehabilitation programs;

                (3) shelter programs; and

                (4) animal education or animal conservation programs accredited by a local or national authority on animal education or animal conservation.

          C. Municipalities and counties shall by ordinance prohibit the use of exotic animals in traveling performances as provided by this section and shall enforce the provisions of Subsection B of this section."

     SECTION 2. EFFECTIVE DATE.--The effective date of the provisions of this act is July 1, 2023.

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