These loopholes will harm big cats: Oppose this dangerous bill >>

The Protecting Local Zoos Act of 2026 (H.R. 7159) is dangerously misleading. The bill weakens hard‑won protections for big cats established by the bipartisan Big Cat Public Safety Act (BCPSA)—protections that ended abusive cub‑petting operations, curbed the exotic pet trade, and made communities and first responders safer. The BCPSA has been a proven success, shutting down exploitation and strengthening efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.

The Protecting Local Zoos Act (H.R. 7159) threatens to reverse that progress by:

  • Reopening loopholes for “cub‑petting” operations
  • Allowing unqualified groups to buy and sell dangerous big cats
  • Removing protections for snow leopards and clouded leopards
  • Removing protections for snow leopards and clouded leopards

This bill benefits those seeking to exploit wildlife—not legitimate zoos, communities, or conservation efforts.

IFAW is working to stop this dangerous bill from moving through Congress, and we need your help. Vote NO on H.R. 7159. Every vote matters, and IFAW will use each one to power our continued fight against this dangerous bill and to protect vulnerable big cats nationwide.

I oppose H.R. 7159, which would weaken the successful, bipartisan Big Cat Public Safety Act by reopening loopholes for cub petting, pay‑to‑play exhibits, and the trade of dangerous big cats—including eliminating protections for snow and clouded leopards. The BCPSA has strengthened public safety, reduced big‑cat trafficking and breeding abuses, and earned broad support from zoos, sanctuaries, and law enforcement. I reject these harmful rollbacks and vote against H.R. 7159 to protect communities, first responders, and animal welfare.

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