Update (January 31, 2017): Unfortunately, this bill died in committee.
Bill Description:
This bill classifies venomous snakes as inherently dangerous to humans.[teaserbreak]
Background:
It is unlawful in Mississippi for a person to import or possess any wild animal classified inherently dangerous by law or regulation unless that person holds a permit or is exempted from holding a permit. Inherently dangerous animals already include, but are not limited to: orangutans, chimpanzees, gorillas, macaques, mandrills, baboons, wolves, bears, hyenas, lions, tigers, jaguars, leopards, elephants, etc. This bill would require private owners of venomous snakes to obtain a license, making it easier for law enforcement to keep track of the location of these dangerous animals.
Born Free USA’s Exotic Animal Incidents Database documents many tragic incidents involving venomous snakes kept as pets, including multiple fatalities.
Read the full text here.