Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I received word today that the sponsor of this bill has decided to drop his sponsorship, effectively killing this bill. Unless another member of either the GA or the Senate decide to take it on, we shouldn't have to worry about this again until next year.

For those wondering if my initial outcry was unjustified - it was NOT. The official wording of the bill (kept hidden until today) *did* include the phrase "companion animal", which includes exotics in VA...

I'll keep an eye out for other bills that could endanger our hobby.

-----
Bonnie Keller
VA Reptile Rescue
www.vareptilerescue.org

Not to undermine your concern, I have had several conversations with my representative about this. I was told this would NEVER pass. After hearing that the man who proposed it has plenty of money and contributed to the senator's campaign, it makes even more sense. Notice ALL the communication on this bill was to write to the senator because he needed a blizzard of mail supporting the bill? Ever see this before? Well, what do you do with a man who contributes heavily but has a bill that get you laughed out of the office? I was told the senator would sit this man down with all the faxes, emails, etc and ask him how he expected to get it through. Now, the senator DID need those emails, etc, but I don't think you will see anyone asking for letters to convince their senator to carry a bill for a long time. That was the Clue. Also, the return email I got from the office indicated they were looking into a study.

I am reminded that most of our senators and delegates own dogs.

While I never expected this to actually pass, the point is that herp owners need to start being PROACTIVE, and let their lawmakers know that we are out here, and that we have a voice!! That way, in the event that another bill slips by without our notice, they may at least realize that there could be problems with a bill that would restrict our rights.

I urge everyone to go out and MEET their lawmakers, whether it's for a particular bill or not. Go to their parties, go to their public relations events, get in their face as a FRIENDLY force that they begin to recognize as being one of their constituents. (Cindy, I know you already do this.) Make sure that when you interact with them that you present yourself as being intelligent, articulate, and ready to vote. Unfortunately, many lawmakers don't know anyone with herps as pets - therefore, they rely on the stereotypes and media hype for their information. (Sorry, if you fit the stereotype, then maybe this isn't the best idea...)

If they actually KNOW someone that has herps, and that person is deemed respectable, they are more likely to call upon you for an opinion when they get to a bill that they don't know much about.

OK, maybe I'm dreaming, but I really believe that if we make friends with our potential enemies, that maybe they won't be enemies anymore...

Of course, an even better route might be for a herper to actually run for office and win...
-----
Bonnie Keller
VA Reptile Rescue
www.vareptilerescue.org

This is why I have benn asking people to let their senators and delegates know that iguanas, anoles, turtles, etc should not be disposable prizes at carnivals. It is important that they see us as a group who cares about our charges.

Yes, the defense to the animal rights groups is to walk into your representatives office enough that they know you.

I can't run for office,unless I retire. LOL