So, I was reading a World Atlas book...

[bcr226]

Originally Posted by Aaron_S

I understand we still battle misinformation especially since the older generation read these books and passed on the information.

Honestly though, it's a book from 1984. 29 years ago and you didn't think bad information would be there? Better things to get upset about than a 1984 Atlas book. Save your energy for a real legislation battle.

That book is one example. Yes, it's very important because we're fighting 30+ years of misleading information that the public in general takes as gospel.

You might think it's not important but this is the kind of material those who would ban our ability to keep snakes will point to in reference. Legislators will refer to that book which has an air of authority to it and look at you and say, "This is in a scientific book. Who are you and who are you to challenge it?"

I've been dealing with this scenario in the fight for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms for over 25 years. It doesn't matter if the text is wrong or not, it's a published book and they will use it against you. I can counter the stupidity in the RKBA fight because I have standing and credentials and authority on the subject. I can say, yes, that text is incorrect and here's why and oh by the way, yes, I know what I'm talking about because I'm a licensed manufacturer and gunsmith with decades of experience and certifications. That usually shuts their arguments down pretty fast.

I can't say that on the subject of snakes. Can you? Yes, I have a collection of snakes but it's a hobby for my family, not a career. I'm dealing with one of our state Senators right now on the matter of snakes. He doesn't believe that there is a $15 million+ industry in my state for exotic pets. He wants proof that a ban will have a significant impact on the revenue of the state. He believes all pythons and boas will eat our children and choke us to death in our sleep. He doesn't believe me and won't because frankly, in the herp world, I'm an absolute nobody. He doesn't care if my argument is right or wrong. He has documentation to back his stance. Probably from books that are decades old...

So, yeah, it's important and brushing it off like you have is not the wisest thing in the world if you want to keep being able to collect and own exotic reptiles. We need to know what weapons our enemies will use against us and be able to counter their stances.