Louisiana Regulates Ownership of Primates, Exotic Reptiles

by Sherry Morse

Louisiana Governor Mike Foster signed HB 1468, which regulates the purchase, importation and possession of nonhuman primates and non-indigenous reptiles, into law earlier this month.

The new law, which will take effect on August 15, authorizes the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries to make the rules which will regulate not only the purchase and possession of nonhuman primates, but also that of venomous snakes and constricting snakes longer than twelve feet in length as well.

The new rules will also pertain to internet purchases of these animals.

Exceptions to these rules will be provided for zoos, aquariums, animal sanctuaries, and wildlife research facilities like the Tulane Primate Research Center and the University of Louisiana Lafayette Primate Center.

Owners who can prove ownership prior to July 1, 2003 may also be provided with exceptions to the new law.

© 2003 Animal News Center, Inc.