Quote Originally Posted by Skiploder View Post
I am worried that the federal government will find what some of us already know - that this hobby is laced with irresponsible ownership and that large, potentially dangerous animals are available to any one who can afford them.
I think that is quite valid. There are irresponsible people in all aspects of society and there have to be rules in place to combat that. That's why we have laws to punish drunk drivers and fines for people who don't give their dogs water. The list goes on.

I do think that banning all constrictors is insane, though. It's a knee-jerk reaction made by people who have no idea about our hobby. The legislation they SHOULD pass would be telling PetSmart et. al. that they need to be providing potential owners with proper education instead of worshiping the almighty sale of expensive animals. Anyone telling a first time herp owner that they should buy a green 'conda is obviously only interested in money and not the safety of the animal or its owner.

Education and free, easily attainable information will help so much. There will always be jerks out there who don't care about animals and won't do what is best for them (ever watch that animal cops show on Animal Planet?) but I think some care sheets at the herp displays in local pet stores would do wonders.