I wanted to post this because after receiving a response from my letter to Congressman Ed Pastor (D) on H.R. 669 I began to feel more fearful than ever about the potential loss of our rights to keep, breed, and share these animals that we all love. My fear wasn't stirred by a disregard or overt disagreement of my letter, but of his ambiguous response to the arguments that were presented and his failure at any point to note opposition to H.R. 669.



It is obvious that many of our representative’s lack a true respect for us, the herpetoculture enthusiasts. After reading this I felt as though persuading such delegates to support similar legislation will be a great deal easier than convincing them to oppose related bills. We are up against it. We can’t afford to be passive on the efforts that exist to strip our freedoms to keep and breed nonnative reptiles. We have to fight CONTINUOUSLY.



Congressman Ed Pastor’s response follows…





April 24, 2009



Ed Pastor

4th District, Arizona

Subcommittee on

Interior, Environment, and Related Issues





Dear Mr. Knoell:



Thanks you for contacting me concerning efforts to protect our environment. I appreciate learning of you interest on the issue.



As you know, on January 26, the Nonnative Wildlife Invasion Prevention Act, H.R. 669, was introduced in the House of Representatives. This bill would require the Secretary of the Interior to develop regulations for assessing the risk of all nonnative wildlife species proposed for importation into the United States. It does provide procedures for expanding the list of nonnative wildlife species approved for importation and the list of nonnative wildlife species that are prohibited. It also establishes prohibitions on the importation and transportation of nonnative wildlife species that are not included on the approved list between States, as well as prohibiting the possession, purchase, sale, barter, resale or breeding of this species. H.R.669 has been referred to the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans and Wildlife. Hearings were held on April 23.



It is widely accepted by the scientific community that nonnative invasive wildlife is having an impact on our nation’s ecosystem. This is a particular concern in Arizona as we border Mexico and many nonnative species can be brought across our border. Accordingly, I believe we should explore all viable methods for addressing this issue. However, any legislative proposal must ensure that we do not have a negative impact on legitimate biodiversity. Should the Nonnative Wildlife Invasion Prevention Act come to the floor of the House, please be assured that I will consider it with your interests in mind.



It was good to hear from you on this important matter.



Sincerely,

(signature)

Ed Pastor

Member of Congress

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