On February 3rd 2010 the California Fish & Game Commission agreed to push forward to ban the import and sales of non-native turtles and frogs. Just what species will be targeted is unclear but based on the video below the commission would be inclined to make them all illegal just to be sure.

"Make the list as wide as is appropriate" said commissioner Richard B Rodgers at the meeting in early February. Only supporters of the measure, including HSUS and Action For Animals, spoke at this meeting.

A "Lets take off and nuke em from space" attitude may work in Hollywood movies, but is rarely successful in real life.

To view the video see mms://media.cal-span.org/calspan/Video_Files/CFG/CFG_10-02-03/CFG_10-02-03.wmv The turtle and frog regulation information starts at 1 hour 59 minutes and lasts for approximately 30 minutes.

The next California Fish & Game meeting is this Wednesday March 3rd in Ontario, California For more information on the agenda see http://www.fgc.ca.gov/meetings/2010/030310agd.pdf

www.fgc.ca.gov
Meeting at DoubleTree Hotel Ontario Airport
March 3, 2010 (Wednesday) Doubletree Ballroom1
8:30 a.m. 2 222 N. Vineyard Avenue
Ontario, California

Many reptile and amphibian hobbyists as well as clubs and organizations plan on sending representatives but the more hobbyists and pet owners that can attend and wish to give the commission their 3 minutes the better. If you attend the meeting please have a prepared statement ready and dress appropriately.

If you are unable to attend the meeting please contact the California Fish & Game Commissioners directly by email to fgc@fgc.ca.gov . You may also fax your comments to (916) 653-5040

For up to date information on this issue please look at the Reptile Law Resource Center at http://forums.kingsnake.com/forum.php?catid=13