The Senate Committee on Labor, Regulatory Reform, Veterans and Military Affairs convened on August 29, 2023, to discuss key issues affecting wildlife facilities in Wisconsin. The meeting focused on a proposed bill aimed at establishing parity in accreditation standards for wildlife parks, particularly those seeking accreditation from the Zoological Association of America (ZAA).

The session began with discussions surrounding the inspection processes for wildlife facilities. Concerns were raised about the frequency of inspections, especially for facilities already holding a USDA license. The committee examined the implications of attaching accreditation processes to these inspections, which could potentially create additional regulatory burdens.

Matt Schoebel, representing Tim Mabadi Wildlife Park in Wisconsin Dells, provided testimony in favor of the proposed bill. He highlighted his family's long-standing involvement in the wildlife business and emphasized the rigorous standards set by the ZAA. Schoebel noted that only one facility in the state is currently accredited by ZAA, while his park is in the process of obtaining accreditation. He described the challenges faced during a recent mock inspection, which underscored the high standards required for animal welfare and facility maintenance.

Schoebel argued that the bill would elevate animal care standards beyond those mandated by the USDA, asserting that the ZAA's criteria are often more stringent. He urged committee members to support the legislation, framing opposition as a lack of concern for animal welfare.

Senator Carpenter raised questions regarding the differences between ZAA and AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) standards, seeking clarity on how these organizations compare in terms of animal treatment and accreditation requirements. Schoebel deferred to Kelly George, the executive director of ZAA, for a more detailed comparison, indicating that comprehensive information on the standards is available for review.

The meeting concluded without any immediate resolutions, but the discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance wildlife care standards in Wisconsin. The committee plans to continue evaluating the proposed bill and its potential impact on wildlife facilities across the state. Further follow-up actions are expected as the accreditation process evolves and more facilities seek to meet the higher standards set forth by the ZAA.