**Forwarded from USARK - Even if you do no not keep snakes, it is important to do your share for the hobby. It takes only a few minutes to do your part! The more momentum these anti-pet groups gain the more species they can attack. We need to stand together as herp enthusiasts and support one another even if we keep different things! The addition of these species to the Lacey Act is completely unfounded, don't let them take away our rights...Please read and leave your comment!* Constrictor Rule Comment ReopensRequest an Extension for Comment Now Deadline is July 24: Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is taking additional comments regarding listing five species of snakes (Boa constrictor, Reticulated python, DeSchauensee’s anaconda, Green anaconda and Beni anaconda) as injurious under the Lacey Act. These species were originally proposed in 2010. If listed, FWS would ban interstate transportation/commerce and importation. Remember to be professional and civil with your comments. At this time, everyone should send a first round of comments requesting an extension of the comment period. These can be relatively simple and Talking Points are below. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC) will also be requesting an extension. All affected groups, businesses and individuals are encouraged to do the same. FWS has allowed only 30 days for comment, which is inadequate. Comments must be submitted at: www.regulations.gov/#!submitComment;D=FWS-R9-FHC-2008-0015-4570or by visitingwww.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FWS-R9-FHC-2008-0015-4570 and clicking Comment Now! in the upper right. Comments by U.S. mail: Public Comments Processing Attn: Docket No. FWS–R9–FHC–2008–0015 Division of Policy and Directives Management U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, Suite 222 Arlington, VA 22203 The letter for an extension of the comment period by USARK can be viewed at www.usark.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/USARK_Request_for_Extension.pdf. USARK Talking Points for Extension Request A significant amount of time has passed since the last opportunity for public comment closed in 2010. Substantial new biological and economic information is available since the end of the last comment period. The proposed listings will have severe educational, economic, conservation and scientific impacts, and therefore adequate time for submissions is necessary. Reptile owners are a diverse group, so extra time is needed to ensure that all concerns are heard. This is particularly true for military service members. Tens of thousands of responsible pet keepers will also be negatively affected. The Federal Register announcement can be viewed at www.usark.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Constrictor-Rule-Register-6.24.14.pdf.
