H.R. 669, Nonnative Wildlife Invasion Prevention Act, a bill to prevent the introduction and establishment of nonnative wildlife species that negatively impact the economy, environment, or other animal species' or human health, and for other purposes, has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Madeleine Bordallo. The bill is co-sponsored by 12 House members (listed in content below) including Rep. Barney Frank and Rep. Jim McGovern of Massachusetts, with the backing of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and Defenders of Wildlife.
USARKS (U.S. Association of Reptile Keepers) and PIJAC (Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council) have launched active campaigns to fight this legislation.
The New England Herpetological Society Board of Directors is reviewing this information, and formulating a position statement. If you are a NEHS member, please post your comments in this forum.
