Federal: Ban trade in large snake species?
*EricWI's note: There is a poll and comments section.
http://blogs.palmbeachpost.com/opinionzone/2011/07/22/ban-trade-in-large-snake-species/

Beatrice NE: Council strikes down request for unusual animal permits
*EricWI's note: Does not involve herps, but could affect the way permits for herps may be issued by the city of Beatrice NE.
The Beatrice City Council stuck down three exotic animal applications at its Monday meeting that would have allowed three unusual animals to be kept within city limits as pets.
http://www.beatricedailysun.com/news/local/article_13c3e002-b1b2-11e0-8b71-001cc4c002e0.html?mode=story

HI: Snakes threaten Hawaii's fragile island ecosystem
But the recent capture of escaped pet snakes -- illegal in Hawaii -- and the infestation of Guam by brown tree snakes, which could easily make it here via cargo ship, have alarmed wildlife and agriculture officials.
http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9OJENO01.htm

NC: Serpentarium offers reward, won't press charges if tortoises returned
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) -- They're not exactly the most inconspicuous of animals, but someone has stolen two large tortoises from a Wilmington reptile exhibit.
http://www.wwaytv3.com/2011/07/19/serpentarium-offers-reward-wont-press-charges-if-tortoises-returned