Does Federal Bill HR 669 Affect Cats?

by Michael
(London, UK)

Does Federal Bill HR 669 Affect Cats? This is a question worrying some cat breeders. There does though seem to be a little bit of paranoia sometimes by some people in the cat fancy when there is even the merest whiff of ARs in the background (Animal Rights activists). I don't live in the United States so this is an outsider's view. The internet is full of the standard government issued summary of this Bill. A bill is a potential Act but only that.

In summarising the summary it seems to me that the purpose of this proposed Act is to better control "nonnative wildlife species that negatively impact the economy, environment, or other animal species' or human health" It's purpose then would seem to be concerned with the welfare of people, the environment and of the animals. But a lot of people are against it. Lets not forget that there is a lot of cruel wild animal trade with supplies coming from places like Mexico. Does the Bill help protect these animals? It seems so. And if it does that is a good thing.

This site: http://scienceblogs.com covers the ground a bit more precisely and dispassionately than some others. And in answer to that pressing question for cat fancy people, "Does Federal Bill HR 669 Affect Cats?", the answer would seem, at this time to be, "No".


According to the author of the article on the website referred to:

HR 669 starts out by automatically exempting many of the most damaging and invasive exotic animals; The exceptions: cat (Felis catus).......

The author also criticises the Bill for not dealing with what he or she calls invasive species that are established:

HR 669 does not address the very real problem of invasive species that are already established and thriving throughout the United States, such as feral populations of domestic cats and dogs roaming freely through our cities

Invasive species are "non-indigenous species (e.g. plants or animals) that adversely affect the habitats they invade economically, environmentally or ecologically" and/or "both native and non-native species that heavily colonize a particular habitat." (src; Wikipedia)



The Bill if it became an Act would though:

1. Affect the pet trade significantly. It seems the type of animals affected are as mentioned in the video.
2. Ignores invasive exotic plant species.
3. Will be unnecessarily punitive.
4. Is unrealistic in terms of it being carried out (it will not work through lack of staffing and training).
5. The risk assessment process is ill defined and vague
6. {note: This list is not comprehensive nor meant to be}
   

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