Rep. Scott Touts House Passage of Bill to Prohibit Animals as Prizes

Hartford, Conn. – On Monday evening, May 6, 2024, the State House of Representatives passed a bill that would clarify the prohibition on using animals as prizes. Rep. Tony Scott (R-112) co-sponsored the HB 5236 An Act Concerning the Department of Consumer Protection’s Recommendations Regarding Consumer Protection and Professional Licensing, Certification, Permitting and Registration.

“I am pleased the House passed this omnibus bill with overwhelming support. My daughter, Lauren, came to the state Capitol last year to testify on this proposal. I hope the Senate will also take up this proposal and that it receives a favorable vote in that chamber as well,” said Scott. “I thank the chair of the Public Safety Committee for partnering with me on this part of the bill, it’s a provision that’s personal to me.”

Current statute states that no person can use an animal, reptile, or bird as a prize at a carnival or fair. Reptile and bird are singled out, despite the number one prize being a (gold)fish. This provision adds the word fish to the statute.

“My daughter was passionate about the General Assembly taking action after witnessing kids throwing fish off the top of the Ferris Wheel and similar acts. I hope we ban get this over the finish line and that this be changed to prevent these incidents from occurring in the future,” added Scott.

The state Senate has until adjournment on May 8 to vote on proposed bills this session.