H.R. 7159: Protecting Local Zoos Act of 2026

This bill, known as the Protecting Local Zoos Act of 2026, proposes amendments to the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981, which regulates the treatment and ownership of wildlife in the United States. The key elements of the bill are as follows:

Adjustments to Captive Wildlife Offenses

The bill aims to modify the existing rules regarding the possession of prohibited wildlife species by providing specific criteria under which entities can legally hold such animals.

• It adds a stipulation that only entities licensed under a Class B license by the Department of Agriculture can exhibit animals.
• Entities that hold prohibited species will be required to register each individual animal with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
• Once registered, these entities cannot breed, buy, or sell the prohibited wildlife species or allow public contact and exhibition with these animals.

Import and Export Regulations

The legislation permits registered entities to export or import prohibited wildlife species to or from foreign entities, provided those foreign entities are operating legally in their respective countries.

Registration Cancellation

The bill also allows individuals and entities to apply for cancellation of their registration with the USFWS if they believe they qualify for an exception under the new rules. The application will require evidence of compliance with the new provisions.

Definition of Prohibited Wildlife Species

The definition of prohibited wildlife species will be updated to exclude particular species, namely:

• Snow leopard (Uncia uncia)
• Clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa)
• Any hybrid of these species

This means that the specified species will no longer be classified as prohibited under the Act.

Implications for Local Zoos

The bill's amendments are intended to support local zoos by creating clearer guidelines for the custody of certain wildlife species. By allowing registration and exemptions, the bill aims to provide a structured framework for zoos and facilities working with captive wildlife.

Relevant Companies

• WILC - This company operates in the pet and animal feed industry and may be impacted by the new regulations on wildlife ownership.
• HOLX - As a medical device company with animal testing requirements, changes in wildlife ownership laws could affect their operational compliance.
• AEROG - This company could see changes in their animal research practices as per the new wildlife regulations.