Political Quotes

“H.R. 2964, the Captive Primate Safety Act, was introduced by our colleague from Texas, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson. This bill amends the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 to prohibit the import, export, transportation, sale, receipt, acquisition, or purchase in interstate or foreign commerce of nonhuman primates. Although the importation of nonhuman primates into the United States for the pet trade has been banned by Federal regulation since 1975 due to health concerns, these animals are readily available for purchase on the Internet and from exotic animal dealers. While some States already prohibit the possession of these animals as pets, there remains an active trade in these animals. Nonhuman primates may pose serious risks to public health and safety. They can transmit diseases and inflict serious physical harm. In addition, most people cannot provide the special care, housing, diet and enrichment that these animals require.”