This law makes it illegal to move certain types of live big cats across state lines or U.S. borders. Cats covered by the Act include lions, tigers, leopards, snow leopards, clouded leopards, jaguars, cheetahs, and cougars; all subspecies of these species; and hybrid combinations of these species.

Specifically, the Act prohibits anyone from importing or exporting these animals; selling or buying them through interstate commerce; transporting them across state lines; and receiving or acquiring them if the animals are moved from one state to another.

The statute and service regulations provide exemptions for zoos, circuses, researchers, transporters, and others licensed or registered by the USDA under the Animal Welfare Act. State colleges, universities and agencies and state-licensed wildlife rehabilitators and veterinarians are also exempt as are wildlife sanctuaries meeting specific criteria.

Penalties for violating the Captive Wildlife Safety Act and its regulations are based on the nature of the offense. Violations range from misdemeanors to a felony punishable by a prison term of up to five years and a fine of up to $250,000 for an individual and $500,000 for an organization.

The law is set to become effective September 17, 2007.

To read more click here fws.gov.