HB1033 seeks to expand the ban on Green iguanas (Iguana iguana) to include all Iguana species (assumedly all genera of the family Iguanidae: Amblyrhynchus, Brachylophus, Cachryx, Conolophus, Ctenosaura, Cyclura, Dipsosaurus, Iguana, and Sauromalus.)
This would mean that rock iguanas, spiny-tailed iguanas, rhinoceros iguanas, chuckwallas, and all other Iguanids would become Prohibited Species. It does this by changing statute from reading “Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)” to just “Iguana.”
Florida is the world center of conservation for imperiled iguana species. Some of the largest assurance colonies of endangered Iguanas are found at Florida facilities. The reptile industry has contributed to raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for Iguana conservation through IguanaFest and coordination with conservationists. In addition to its negative conservation impacts, this bill further degrades the freedoms of reptile keepers and small businesses within Florida.
HB1033 also bans the sales of dog and cats in pet shops. HB1033 was introduced by State Representative Sam Killebrew (Republican) of Winter Haven (District 48)
Read the bill at https://www.flsenate.gov/.../2024/1033/BillText/Filed/PDF.
The bill has been profiled and has not yet been assigned to a committee. The Florida legislative session begins on January 9, 2024. The bill would take effect on take effect July 1, 2024.
Contact Representative Killebrew and tell him this bill is a threat to pet owners, small businesses, farmers, and conservation.
sam.killebrew@myfloridahouse.gov
Capitol Office
300 House Office Building
402 South Monroe Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1300
(850) 717-5048
District office;
337 Avenue C Southwest
Winter Haven, FL 33880-3262
(863) 291-5254