In the near future, I will re-introduce legislation enabling the ownership or possession of hedgehogs and sugar gliders in Pennsylvania. These animals, often referred to as “pocket pets”, are legal throughout a vast majority of the country.

Currently in Pennsylvania, hedgehogs and sugar gliders are banned from ownership as pets through the Game Commission’s regulations and their interpretation of Title 34.  The Commission recognizes these animals as “exotic” and does not allow for their sale or possession. The Game Commission arguably has the authority to exempt these animals via regulation, but an exemption through statute is required to allow the citizens of Pennsylvania to own these pets without concern. 

This legislation nearly left the House in 2017 and has been attempted in each session since. It is long overdue that we listen to our constituents and end this nonsensical ban on cute and loving hedgehogs and sugar gliders.

Please consider co-sponsoring this piece of legislation.

Previous cosponsors of HB 567, 2023-2024: HAMM, ROWE AND LEADBETER