Despite the input of thousands of reptile owners and businesses, today the Florida Independent is reporting that the U.S. House Judiciary Committee passed H.R. 511, a bill that would add nine species of constrictor snakes to the the list of injurious species under the Lacey Act, clearing the way for a vote by the full House of Representatives later in the year.

Quick to release a statement, the HSUS is already pushing to take the next step.

“The House Judiciary Committee recognized that the trade in large, constricting snakes is reckless and irresponsible, putting people, ecosystems and the animals that live in them, and the snakes themselves at risk,” said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. “We hope that the bill is scheduled for a vote on the House floor soon, and that the Senate takes up the matter expeditiously.”

The read the full text of the article at the Florida Independent click here

The next step for H.R. 511 is the full House of Representatives, where it will have to be voted on and pass, and from there to the U.S. Senate, and then to the President, a process that can take days, or months depending on the impetus of the bill. If you are a pet owner concerned or impacted by the implications of this proposed legislation, please make sure to let your House of Representatives member know how it impacts you and your family.