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Dear Mr. Diaz:
Thank you for writing me about S. 373, a bill I introduced that would ban the importation and trade between States of the Burmese python.
Burmese pythons often are released into the wild when their owners can no longer care for them. Though not native to south Florida, Burmese pythons are thriving in the Everglades National Park, threatening natural species, many of which are endangered, and posing the risk of upsetting the delicate ecosystem of the region. We have invested many years and billions of dollars in an effort to restore the Everglades to its natural balance, and non-native species, like Burmese pythons, threaten to undo that work.
The companion bill in the House of Representatives (H.R. 2811) has been reported out of the Judiciary Committee and awaits consideration before the full House. Before the bill was reported out, the legislation was amended to include only Burmese pythons and African Rock pythons.
As this legislation moves through Congress, I will keep your views in mind. I appreciate you taking the time to write me with your views on this important matter. I hope you won't hesitate to do so in the future.
Sincerely,
Senator Bill Nelson
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