(Photo: MGN)RICHMOND, Va. (AP)- Virginia is embarking on a review of policies and regulations that govern the possession of dangerous or exotic animals in the state.
A workshop is scheduled Wednesday in suburban Richmond on the so-called dangerous animals initiative. The review was sparked by a 2011 incident in Ohio involving the release of more than 50 dangerous animals such as big cats that had to be hunted down and destroyed.
The initiative was launched by Gov. Bob McDonnell, who asked the state Department of Game and Inland Fisheries to review regulations regarding exotic animals. Legislation to regulate dangerous animals was put on hold until the review is completed.
The workshop will bring together a variety of interests, including animal protection groups, fans of exotic animals and experts.
