Bill > A01685

This bill aims to prohibit the breeding, sale, trade, purchase, importation, and exportation of red-eared slider turtles (Trachemys scripta elegans) in New York State due to their status as a highly invasive species that threatens local ecosystems. The bill recognizes that these turtles, which can live up to 40 years and continue growing throughout their lifespan, are often released or escape into the wild, leading to significant biodiversity disruption. While broadly prohibiting commercial and personal interactions with red-eared slider turtles, the legislation provides specific exemptions for zoological parks, wildlife sanctuaries, research facilities, licensed veterinarians, animal welfare organizations, state universities, wildlife rehabilitators, and nature centers engaged in environmental education and research. The exemptions ensure that critical scientific, educational, and animal welfare work can continue while still restricting the general trade and proliferation of these invasive turtles. The bill will take effect 60 days after becoming law, and the state's environmental conservation department is authorized to develop implementation regulations to enforce these restrictions.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1685