01/31/2025
This is a big deal for anyone with "exotic" pets in Virginia. Please help take action against this getting passed.
Sample letter and more details at https://usark.org/25va/.
Senate Bill 1125 (SB1125) in Virginia would ban breeding “wildlife” unless permitted by the VA Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR). Testimony by the bill sponsor, Senator Boysko, is very alarming, and the legislative intent is very different from the bill’s actual language. Boysko stated that her intent with the bill was to stop certain breeding of exotic (non-native and non-domesticated) animals.
While the bill states that this only pertains to “wildlife,” which under state definition means only Virginia native species found in the wild, the sponsor’s stated intent and fact that this went through the Companion Animal Subcommittee raise serious concerns of overreach. With an 8-5-1 vote in the Senate Committee, it is clear that Senators who are taking a hard look at the bill understand that it is flawed.
With the harsh overreach occurring in Virginia regarding animals, the best action is to stop this bill. Even the bill sponsor and her “expert” could not answer questions from other Senators, leaving a vague understanding of the bill before the Senate. Virginia animal owners should let their opposition be known; otherwise, this bill could open the door to the end of breeding parrots, tortoises, geckos, and all other non-domesticated animals. If DWR does not issue a permit, then you cannot breed. Any hybridization/crossing would also be illegal.
Sample letter and more details at https://usark.org/25va/.
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