A recent legislative proposal in Iowa has sparked attention for its unusual focus: sharks. House File 24, discussed by a subcommittee in the Iowa House, seeks to add certain types of sharks to the state’s list of dangerous wild animals. Specifically, sharks that can grow to a length of 23 inches or more, or have a documented history of biting humans, would be included in the existing code. This law already limits public interaction and private ownership of dangerous animals such as lions, tigers, crocodiles, and great apes.
While shark attacks are not something typically associated with a landlocked state like Iowa, the proposal was prompted by a real incident in July 2024. At Blue Zoo, a private aquarium in West Des Moines, a bamboo shark bit a staff member who was trying to move the distressed animal from an interactive exhibit to a larger tank. Emergency responders had to intervene, and tragically, the shark was euthanized because its teeth could not be removed from the staff member’s hand.
Aiming to Prevent Future Incidents
The proposed bill is intended to prevent similar incidents by tightening restrictions on public interaction with sharks and ensuring proper staff training for handling such animals. Angela Caulk, a lobbyist for the Humane Society of the United States, emphasized the need for such measures.
“EMS [emergency medical services] have to take the time to come out and take care of an incident that could have been easily rectified had those types of interactions not been allowed,” Caulk told lawmakers during the subcommittee meeting.
The bill aims to reduce the risks associated with keeping sharks in environments where they can be touched by the public. By adding sharks to the list of dangerous animals, Iowa lawmakers hope to enforce stricter guidelines for their handling and housing, particularly in interactive exhibits.
Challenges in Legislation
Despite general support for the intent of the measure, some lawmakers questioned whether the issue warranted statewide legislation. Rep. John Wills, R-Spirit Lake, expressed concerns about addressing a single incident through a broad legislative approach.
“My personal opinion is, I have a tough time doing any bill to go over one business or one town,” Wills said. However, he noted that discussions on the proposal would continue.
This hesitation reflects a broader challenge in crafting laws to address specific situations while ensuring they are applicable and enforceable statewide.
The Bigger Picture
Iowa’s existing dangerous wild animal code is designed to protect both humans and animals. It limits public interaction and private ownership of potentially dangerous creatures, with exceptions for accredited institutions like zoos and wildlife sanctuaries. Adding sharks to this list may seem unusual, but it aligns with the state’s goal of ensuring public safety and animal welfare.
The July incident at Blue Zoo highlighted the risks involved in keeping sharks in interactive exhibits. Bamboo sharks, like the one involved in the incident, are generally small and considered harmless in their natural habitats. However, stress and mishandling can lead to unpredictable behavior, as seen in this case.
Public Safety and Animal Welfare
The proposal also raises questions about the responsibilities of businesses that house exotic animals. Ensuring proper training for staff and creating safe environments for both animals and visitors are critical steps. The Humane Society of the United States supports the bill as a means to address these concerns proactively.
Interactive exhibits featuring exotic animals are popular attractions, offering educational and entertainment value. However, they come with inherent risks, particularly when animals are placed in unfamiliar or stressful situations. Adding stricter regulations could help minimize these risks and ensure better outcomes for both humans and animals.
A Balancing Act
While the proposed bill has its merits, it also highlights the complexities of legislating animal welfare and public safety. Lawmakers must strike a balance between addressing specific incidents and creating laws that are fair, enforceable, and applicable across the state.
If passed, House File 24 could set a precedent for how states handle incidents involving exotic animals. It could also prompt other states to review their own regulations to ensure they are comprehensive and up-to-date.
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Iowa Bill Seeks to Add Sharks to Dangerous Wild Animals Code
Iowa Bill Seeks to Add Sharks to Dangerous Wild Animals Code
Iowa Bill Seeks to Add Sharks to Dangerous Wild Animals Code