`` This settlement sends a direct message to the public and to those who exhibit animals that USDA will take all necessary steps to protect animals regulated under the Animal Welfare Act , '' Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in the release . Circus owner violated the Animal Welfare Act , regulators say . Feld ##man agrees to pay $ 270,000 but admits no guilt . The circus agrees to a new training program for animal handlers .
Circus owner violated the Animal Welfare Act , regulators say . Feld ##man agrees to pay $ 270,000 but admits no guilt . The circus agrees to a new training program for animal handlers .