Response from my Congressman on Python Ban

[Highline Reptiles South]

Not all politicians are knee jerk people hellbent on infringing on our individual freedoms.
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Dear Mr. Cavanaugh:



Thank you for contacting me to express your opinion regarding the Fish and Wildlife Service's final rule on the constrictor ban. As your Congressman, I appreciate hearing your thoughts and welcome every opportunity to be of service.



As you may know, on April 7, 2011, the FWS filed a final rule with the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) regarding constrictors. This rule, also known as the constrictor ban, adds nine non-native, non-venomous snakes to the Lacey Act's "injurious reptiles" list, therefore making it unlawful to import, export, transport, sell, buy or possess any of the snakes or other reptiles found on this list. The OMB is currently reviewing this rule to determine the costs and benefits of its implementation.



Allowing this rule to stand would effectively end commerce in these species and their hybrids, thereby eliminating an industry worth hundreds of millions of dollars and comprised of tens of thousands of small businesses and entrepreneurs. According to the Small Business Administration's (SBA) Office of Advocacy, the FWS failed to "adequately describe the impacts of the proposed rule on small business" and did "not discuss significant alternatives to the proposed rule."



I have serious concerns about the pace and depth at which the current administration continues to bypass Congress to enact policy changes through the federal regulatory process. At a time when unemployment rates are at their highest in years, we should be focused on growing our economy and using policy to protect businesses and jobs, not creating regulations that place burdensome mandates on Georgia businesses and families. Rest assured I will keep your thoughts in mind should any legislation pertaining to the constrictor ban come before the House for a vote.



Again, thank you for sharing your concerns. If you feel that I may be of additional assistance on this, or any other matter of importance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me. I also invite you to sign up for my weekly email newsletter, or to share your ideas and opinions, by visiting my website at http://gingrey.house.gov or emailing me at gingrey.ga@mail.house.gov.



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