Lacey Act Rammification Clarification

Hi all,

I’m looking for a little clarification on the Lacey Act. On FWS.gov, it reads:

Under the Lacey Act, it is unlawful to import, export, sell, acquire, or purchase fish, wildlife or plants that are taken, possessed, transported, or sold: 1) in violation of U.S. or Indian law, or 2) in interstate or foreign commerce involving any fish, wildlife, or plants taken possessed or sold in violation of State or foreign law.

The Lacey Act was amended to include Burms, Yellow Anacondas, and some African Rock Pythons. As such, it seems that it would be unlawful to acquire or sell Burms and the like. Alas, there are no listings for Burms on Kingsnake.com.

However, I have seen multiple craigslist posts for them, and one today I saw was for a baby. So:

- Are these sellers all breaking the law by offering them for sale?

- If you own two Burms and they breed, are you breaking the law by “acquiring” more babies?

I did not see anything penalizing existing owners. Any clarification would be appreciated.

Thanks :)

"Transported" is the issue.

The Lacey Act, like most federal laws, covers interstate activity. You can sell intrastate and be fine, as long as you're not violating any state laws or local ordinances.

My understanding, is that it is ok to purchase, breed, and sell these species with in your state only. Please correct me if im wrong.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by carbn8

My understanding, is that it is ok to purchase, breed, and sell these species with in your state only. Please correct me if im wrong.

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Exactly, but you have to be in compliance with the state's laws as well, e.g. permits required in Florida.

I see. Thank you for clearing that up; I'm glad that they are not 100% prohibited by federal law.

I have also heard of county, town, and city regulations. Again correct me if im wrong :)!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by carbn8

I have also heard of county, town, and city regulations. Again correct me if im wrong :)!

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Generally speaking, yes. To find out specifically, you'll have to look up your local (state/county/city) laws to find out what's allowed.