The Ohio Department of Agriculture is asking the state Controlling Board to approve an additional 500 thousand dollars to adequately care for exotic animals seized or surrendered under the state's recently enacted crackdown. Spokesperson Erica Hawkins says the cost of enforcing the law wasn't initially clear, but the department always anticipated eventually needing funding beyond the initial 800 thousand dollar appropriation. The additional money would be used for transporting animals to qualified facilities and compensating them while legal proceedings are pending. The board is scheduled to consider the request on Monday.
ODA Wants More Money To Handle Exotic Animals
