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Senate OKs bill to let public handle bear cubs

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - The Michigan Senate has approved a bill that would let the public touch and get photos with bear cubs in the state.
   
In December, Gov. Rick Snyder vetoed similar legislation because it also would have allowed more facilities to acquire and keep large carnivores. But he said he supported a provision pertaining to bear cubs.
   
An Upper Peninsula bear ranch had to stop letting visitors pose for photos while feeding black bear cubs last year after being told it was illegal.
   
The bill would let the public handle bear cubs at 36 weeks old and weighing under 90 pounds.
   
The Senate passed the measure on a 26-9 vote Thursday, with Democrats in opposition. The House will next consider the bill.
   
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Online: Senate Bill 44