By Associated Press
Murray, KY – The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources is considering loosening regulations that restrict elephant rides. Officials have scheduled a hearing for next Tuesday to get public comment on the proposal that would allow people to ride the enormous animals at circuses and other events. The hearing will be at 9 a.m. at the agency's headquarters in Frankfort. Critics plan to show up to voice opposition to the move. Primary Rescue Center executive director April Truitt says the proposal is "unthinkable" because elephant rides are dangerous. She says she intends to ask state officials to include language in the proposed regulation to require organizations offering elephant rides to have a $5 million liability insurance policy.