Strickland introduces ‘tiger legislation’

State Assemblywoman Audra Strickland (R-Thousand Oaks) recently introduced legislation that will implement strict reporting requirements for exotic animal owners and require the Department of Fish and Game to have a written policy and a set of procedures when capturing loose animals. In addition to strengthening the annual reporting requirements of exotic animals, Strickland’s legislation would require owners of exotic animals to immediately report missing animals to local law enforcement authorities.

"It is outrageous that current state law does not require animal owners to immediately report missing exotic animals to law enforcement authorities," said Strickland. "Law enforcement cannot protect either the animals or our community if they are not properly alerted to the problem."

In addition to immediate reporting requirements for missing animals, Strickland’s legislation would require the Department of Fish and Game to establish guidelines for the safe recapture of wild animals and procedures outlining when lethal force would be used to recapture wild animals.

Working with Strickland as a sponsor of this legislation is the Animal Protection Institute, a national animal advocacy organization.

"Assemblywoman Strick-land’s legislation is absolutely necessary to ensure the proper treatment of these exotic animals," said Nicole Paquette, director of governmental affairs for the Animal Protection Institute. "Strickland’s legislation will hold irresponsible owners accountable for the inhumane treatment of exotic animals."