I got in touch with Andrew about when we could expect to hear something about how USARK recommends we proceed regarding the USFWS comment period for their proposal to add pythons, anacondas and boas to the Lacey Act. He asked me to post this message, proactively, to update those who may be wondering the same thing.
He wrote:
We are working on explicit instructions and a template for the general public to make comment that will have maximum impact. Please be patient. Challenging USFWS is very labor intensive and costly. Public comment is important, but only one piece of this puzzle. Please be patient and assured that we will facilitate the grass roots army of the Reptile Nation to make the most effective public comment possible. Coming very soon!
In response to a question posed to him by a forum user, he also wrote the following and I think it bears mentioning:
Keep in mind that out of 1500 comments during the public comment period on the NOI in 2008, only 115 were used because the rest did not meet the parameters of the request. In other words people didn't do it right. Of course it was difficult... but that is why we are preparing detailed guidance to be most effective.
Hope this is helpful!
jb
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