Back to the Drawing Board For Missoula’s Proposed Animal Ban

MISSOULA, Mont. (AP) — A proposed ban on exotic animal acts in Missoula is heading back to a city committee after five council members agreed it falls short of its goals.

The Missoulian reports councilman Ed Childers voted to return the ordinance to the Public Health and Safety Committee, saying it fails to protect exotic animals from cruel and inhumane treatment.

About three dozen of the 80 attendees spoke at Monday night's meeting. Most said they supported the measure, with some recounting animal mistreatment they'd seen or heard about.

A man affiliated with the Western Montana Shrine Circus said elephants are well cared for.

Seven council members came one vote short of keeping the measure from being booted from council consideration.

The city is holding two hearings on the proposed ban.