This is what I just sent--it's basically a scaled-down version of my message sent to my Rep opposing HB 2414.
It is exactly 200 words in length, which is the limit for messages sent via the Governor's web page. 
"I am writing to express my opposition to HB 12, specifically to the language added pertaining to collecting reptiles and amphibians. I am a recreational hunter of reptiles and amphibians. I enjoy looking for and photographing these animals while traveling the highways throughout the state. HB 12 would end this pastime I and many other citizens, both resident and non-resident, spend countless hours and tourism dollars enjoying.
“Hunt,” as defined by TPWD, also includes photographing and even moving an animal off the road to avoid its being run over by careless motorists. HB 12 would prohibit anyone from performing these non-consumptive, conservation-oriented actions.
"Reptile/amphibian “hunting” does not involve firearms. Communications from TPWD dating back to the early 1980s (and reaffirmed in the last several years) express specific guidance allowing collection of reptiles and amphibians from public roads and rights-of-way.
"Although HB 12 may have started with the best of intentions, last-minute additions to the bill make it totally unsatisfactory. The perception is that “dirty politics” has once again reared its ugly head, and that the additions to HB 12 amount to no less than a breach of good faith with the Texas citizenry. I urge you to veto this bill."
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Chris McMartin
www.mcmartinville.com
I'm Not a Herpetologist, but I Play One on the Internet
