Senate Bill 310 defines “dangerous wild animals” to include big cats, bears, and nonhuman primates, among other animals. It prohibits an individual from possessing a dangerous wild animal on or after January 1, 2014. Until that date, a person who possesses a dangerous animal must register that animal with the Director of Agriculture. After the effective date, owners of dangerous wild animals must obtain appropriate permits to maintain ownership.

“A lot of thought and consideration went into this bill,” said Rep. Hill. “I commend Senator Balderson and Governor Kasich for their work and making public safety paramount, but also providing for personal and private rights being of utmost concern.”

Rep. Hill worked closely with Senator Troy Balderson (R-Zanesville) to facilitate the legislation’s passage through both the Ohio House and Ohio Senate following an incident in Muskingum County in which a man released dozens of animals—including bears, lions, tigers, and others from a private menagerie—before committing suicide.