Md. Legislation to Require Roadside Zoos to Carry $1M Liability Coverage
Both houses of the Maryland General Assembly have passed bills to stiffen requirements for roadside zoos without requiring them to be accredited or meet certain safety and animal-care standards.
The Frederick News-Post reported Wednesday that the bills lack restrictions sought by the Humane Society of the United States.
The amended bills would require zoos to carry at least $1 million in liability insurance, employ a full-time director and have staff trained in caring for the animals. The zoos also would have to develop animal relocation plans in case their facilities close, and maintain disease-prevention strategies.
The original bills would have prevented zoos from replacing large animals unless they were accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums or if they hadn’t met certain U.S. Department of Agriculture standards.
- Lloyd’s Insurers Don’t Expect Large Claims From Baltimore Bridge Collapse
- Probe Into Death of Nurse on Home Visit Alleges Employer Failed to Protect Workers
- Rising Prices, Low Satisfaction Drive 49% of Customers to Shop For New Auto Insurance
- Insurers Get Green Light to Pay Less Than Billed Charges in Florida PIP Cases