Bill > SB765

This bill establishes the giant garter snake (Thamnophis gigas) as the official state snake of California, recognizing its unique ecological significance. The bill highlights that this snake is endemic to California, meaning it exists nowhere else in the world, and historically inhabited the Central Valley's wetlands. Currently threatened by habitat loss, agricultural conversion, urban development, and climate change, the giant garter snake has been listed as endangered since 1971 under the California Endangered Species Act and since 1993 under the Federal Endangered Species Act. The largest of all garter snake species, capable of growing up to 64 inches long, the snake now primarily survives in agricultural areas like rice fields and irrigation systems. By designating the giant garter snake as the state snake, the bill aims to acknowledge the species' important role in California's ecology and water resources, and to reinforce the state's commitment to protecting endangered species. The bill specifically amends the Government Code by adding Section 422.6 to formally recognize the giant garter snake as the official state snake.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Government Affairs

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB765