LANSING — The Michigan House approved House Bill 5092, which clarifies that eligibility for a large carnivore breeding license should be based on a facility’s record with those large carnivores rather than unrelated technical citations.

"House Bill 50 92 simply clarifies that a facility's eligibility for a large carnivore breeding license should be determined based on its record with those large carnivores," Representative Fitzgerald said on the House floor, arguing the bill protects institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and focuses enforcement on animal welfare and public safety.

Supporters cited the role of zoos in conservation and public education. Representative Fitzgerald referenced the John Ball Zoo as an example of an accredited facility that contributes to conservation and education.

The bill was read for third time, put to a recorded roll‑call vote and declared passed by the clerk. The House then voted to give the bill immediate effect.

Floor speakers said the bill aims to prevent facilities from losing breeding privileges over unrelated technical violations while preserving enforcement tools for documented welfare or safety violations.