Quote Originally Posted by grim reaper in NY View Post
The same old addage applies here that does on countless other issues. It only takes a few to ruin it for everyone. I used to live in Florida for several years and it was not uncommon to have herp owners turn their "pets" out into the wild due to size, lack of enthusiasm, or whatever.
Now, a decade later, Florida is facing issues with iguanas, and now Burmese Pythons. The climate in Florida does not take much for a reptile to acclimate to at all, especially in the southern part of the state. Alot of concern is being raised over the pythons that have started in habiting the everglades and the negative effect they are having on the countless endangered species that also occupy the Everglades. The problem is bad enough that it has gotten the attention of the state government and now there is even a task force assembled consisting of law enforcement, utility companies and others to be on the watchful eye for these snakes as well as any other "non-native" reptile. Now, obviously a constrictor or iguana wouldn't be able to aclimate to the climates of the northeast or midwst, but down south, they could ebcome a legitimate issue for a few states.
Personally, I don't see how the government can regulate the import of these reptiles. Sure, they may cut down on the number being imported, but I highly doubt the trade will cease altogether. As for small businesses failing because of it, I can actually see the opposite happening. If the government regulates the import of these reptiles, or at least the number of imported reptiles, that will, in turn drive the cost of these pets up considerably. Not to mention, how is the governemt going to regulate the private breeders who already have a large collection of breeders in their possession? Bottom line, try as they might, the powers that be will not able to totally wipe out the reptile populace in this country. That being said, I did sign the petition and I did send a copied letter to each of the legisaltors listed on the website so they know how adamantly I opposed such legislation. It kills me. We condemn other countries and label them "Rogue Nations" for the same processes our government is imposing on us. This potential law is just another example of the government trying to overstep their boundaries...AGAIN.
perhaps this state should of done something about it before hand! now they want to cry wolf and run to take away my choices. its a florida problem not a federal problem.

oh yes and the wood rat is not a native species either!