Yeah, those are all BS reasons, I guarantee it's political.
Salmonella: Unless someone handles a snake and then immediately goes to handle chicken and eggs without washing their hands, there's zero risk there.
People collecting snakes from the wild: Most people have no clue how to find snakes in the wild, let alone catch them, and even if they did, banning domestic reptiles only increases the odds of this happening, as people who really want to keep them will have no other option but to catch wild snakes if they want to have a pet reptile. Given the option of an easily obtained, domesticated pet or the hassle and difficulties involved in finding, catching, and taming a wild snake, what do you think the majority of people are going to choose?
Released herps: Again, not an issue unless you have a tropical climate. Snakes commonly kept in the hobby are tropical animals and cannot survive in colder climates like yours.
Herps difficult to care for: This one made me legit laugh out loud. The majority of reptiles, especially snakes, are far EASIER to care for than pretty much any pet. They're crazy low maintenance. Seriously, my snake eats once a week, poops once a week. Feeding her and cleaning up after her takes max maybe 10 - 15 minutes a week?
Like I said, I guarantee you it's political. Those "reasons" are nothing more than excuses, but I'm so glad you're finally able to keep some reptiles now. Any of the species you listed will make great pets, but I'd just mention that if you get a Beardie or a gecko, just remember that you'll have to keep live crickets in your home to feed them, and they never, ever, stop chirping, lol. You inevitably end up with one or two escaping and hiding out in your home as well. It doesn't bother some people, but it drives me crazy, lol.