Thank you!

Of course, I would never support any movement to ban cats, but, exactly as you said, I feel that snakes are getting picked on because they’re so easy to turn into villains. It doesn’t sound as good to say “let’s ban Burmese pythons because they’re scary to us because we’re ignorant about them.” We promote ourselves as being based in logic and reason so we need to create other rationalizations such as the environment to justify creating laws that fly in the face of what our country is all about.

Let’s at least admit that this isn’t about conservation but about funding running out for the Everglades that Bill Nelson is trying to replace for his state. It’s also about re-election. I think many people thought that they could garner funds and popularity with voters by passing a Bill that they considered a “done deal.”

I think the mentality was that “no one cares about snakes.” They thought the Bill would go through with no resistance and that, in a Congress which has passed less legislation than all or most others, they could get their names into the history books as being some of the few Members of Congress to have actually passed something. I think they were surprised when the Reptile Nation showed up.

I don’t keep burms but I support your right to do so. (Boas are my thing.) I believe that we should work to overturn this rule change. I know that many of you do a wonderful and responsible job in doing what you do. I know that you have spent many hours and dollars to take good care of them. I know that a few “bad apples” have made a negative impact but believe that the norm is a responsible keeper.

I’m so sorry, you guys. Don’t give up though. I’m hoping USARK is working on something to reverse the damage done.

As a fellow keeper, I know how angry and sad you all must be.
Aaron
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www.voodoomagicboas.com

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