Bill Summary: SB0902 - Herptiles-Herps Act

• Creates comprehensive state law governing possession, collection, and commercialization of reptiles and amphibians, removing them from the Fish and Aquatic Life Code and establishing separate regulatory framework under the Department of Natural Resources.

• Permits residents to possess up to 8 native herptiles collectively (no more than 4 per species) without permits, but requires permits for possession beyond limits, scientific collection, or commercial breeding (herpetoculture).

• Establishes strict regulations for special use herptiles including venomous reptiles, crocodilians, monitor lizards, and certain amphibians, requiring permits, liability insurance ($100,000 per animal up to $1,000,000 maximum), and documented educational programs (minimum 6 per year).

• Prohibits commercial farming of turtles, breeding of wild-caught indigenous herptiles without Department authorization, and intentional release of non-indigenous herptiles into the state; creates severe penalties for violations including Class A misdemeanors and Class 3-4 felonies for commercial trafficking.

• Imposes liability on herptile owners for all costs and damages from escaped animals and establishes seizure/forfeiture procedures; all fines and permit fees deposited into Wildlife and Fish Fund.