LANSING (AP) -- Officials at some Michigan zoos say a bill that would allow people to touch and pose for photos with bear cubs would put people and animals in danger.
Michigan's Association of Zoos & Aquariums accredited institutions met Thursday to oppose the bill that would free up facilities to allow public contact with bears under 9 months old or weighing no more than 90 pounds. The institutions include Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek and Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak.
The group says scratches and bites from the "unpredictable" animals can cause injury, disease or death.
Detroit Zoological Society Executive Director and CEO Ron Kagan says bears, "at whatever age and size, are dangerous."
The Senate approved the bill this month. It is now in the House for consideration.
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