I just find it amusing how all these articles go on and on about large carnivorous reptiles as though Florida didn't already have a native alligator population. Obviously different, but a giant reptile capable of eating your children and pets isn't exactly new to Florida.
I'm starting to wonder if maybe certain legislation is needed not to stop people from owning exotics in Florida, but to ensure that the wrong sort of people don't get a hold of them. I think everyone can agree that responsible owners don't release their pets into the wild, and it's certainly irresponsible owners causing a headache for the rest of us. Still, people buy animals like Nile monitors not realizing the kind of care that they require (a huge custom enclosure and a staggering feeding bill) and somehow come to the conclusion that releasing it is the best option.