Stop The National Python & Boa Ban

As a constituent, I am writing to urge you to oppose H.R. 2811/S. 373, which prohibits interstate trade of several species of pythons and boa constrictors that have been common household pets for decades. My opposition does not intend to downplay the real problems that many invasive species pose for our nation’s ecosystems. I am opposed to S. 373/H.R.2811 because it will leave the hundreds of thousands of responsible Americans that own pythons and boa constrictors without any options for the next thirty years or more.

For example, this bill will prohibit people with pet snakes from moving to a new state in order to gain employment or care for an ill or elderly family member. It will not allow pet owners to seek specialized veterinary care that may only exist in another state. It will prohibit our honorable American service men and women from returning to their home states with their pets after their tour of duty is complete. Finally, this bill will prevent Americans forced to evacuate with their snakes from natural disaster areas on routes that takes them across state lines.

On January 21st, 2010 Secretary Salazar announced the the US Department of the Interior has directed the US Fish & Wildlife service to initiate the official regulatory process for the potential injurious listing of these species. I respectfully urge you to please allow the US Fish & Wildlife service to do their job and oppose any attempts to usurp that process with legislation such as HR2811 & S373. Thank you for your consideration.