The purpose of the proposed rule changes is to (1) update and clarify requirements for the issuance of permits for the importation and possession of conditional and prohibited species; (2) establish criteria for issuance and denial of research permits for conditional and prohibited species; (3) retain conditional and prohibited species status for any taxon that subsequently undergoes any taxonomic alterations, such as reclassifying into a different genus or splitting into subspecies; (4) change the status of the six reptile of concern species and their taxonomic successors to conditional species; (5) allow properly permitted recipients to legally accept unpermitted reptiles of concern and conditional reptiles at any time. The effects of these rule changes will be stricter, more consistent regulations regarding the importation and possession of certain non-native species, conditional species and prohibited species; limit the possession of the current reptile of concern species and their taxonomic successors to permitted commercial businesses, researchers and public exhibitors and prohibit the future acquisition of these species for personal possession; allow reptiles of concern in personal possession on or before July 1, 2010 to remain with their owners for the rest of the animals’ lives, provided the owners maintain valid reptile of concern permits; and allow for properly permitted persons to accept unpermitted reptile of concern and conditional reptile species at any time. These species are considered to be dangerous to the ecology and/or the health and welfare of the people of Florida. By adopting these regulations the State of Florida will be contributing to the effort to prevent introductions of non-native species.