Enacts the "Big Five African Trophies Act" relating to banning the importation, transportation and possession of certain African wildlife species and products.
Summary
The bill S05014, known as the 'Big Five African Trophies Act', aims to amend the environmental conservation law in New York by prohibiting the importation, transportation, possession, and sale of certain parts or products derived from the 'Big Five' African species: African Elephant, African Leopard, African Lion, Black Rhinoceros, White Rhinoceros, and African Giraffe. The legislation establishes strict penalties for violations, including the forfeiture and destruction of any seized items associated with these prohibited activities. Exceptions to the ban are provided for items legally possessed prior to the law's enactment, museum collections, and transfers to legal heirs under specific conditions.
Impact
If enacted, this bill will significantly strengthen New York's wildlife protection laws by aligning state regulations with conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species. It will create a legal framework for the enforcement of these prohibitions, allowing state authorities to seize and destroy illegal wildlife products. This legislation is expected to deter illegal wildlife trafficking and promote conservation efforts within the state, potentially influencing similar legislative measures in other jurisdictions.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding the bill has been largely positive, with strong support evidenced by the voting history. The Senate Environmental Conservation Committee initially voted 10-1 in favor of the bill, followed by a favorable floor vote of 54-8 for its final passage. This indicates a significant level of bipartisan support for the legislation, reflecting a growing concern for wildlife conservation among lawmakers and the public.
Contention
Notable points of contention include concerns from some stakeholders regarding the implications for legal hunting practices and the potential impact on collectors of wildlife artifacts. Opponents argue that the bill may inadvertently affect individuals and organizations that legally possess items derived from these species, particularly in the context of museum collections and private ownership. Proponents counter that the bill is necessary to combat illegal wildlife trade and protect endangered species.
Same As
Enacts the "Big Five African Trophies Act" relating to banning the importation, transportation and possession of certain African wildlife species and products.
Enacts the "Big Five African Trophies Act" relating to banning the importation, transportation and possession of certain African wildlife species and products.
Enacts the "Big Five African Trophies Act" relating to banning the importation, transportation and possession of certain African wildlife species and products.
Enacts the "Big Five African Trophies Act" relating to banning the importation, transportation and possession of certain African wildlife species and products.
To amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to allow importation of polar bear trophies taken in sport hunts in Canada before the date the polar bear was determined to be a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
In game or wildlife protection, prohibiting the purchase, sale, offer for sale or possession with intent to sell covered animal parts or products; and imposing penalties.
In game or wildlife protection, prohibiting the purchase, sale, offer for sale or possession with intent to sell covered animal parts or products; and imposing penalties.
Prohibits the importation, transportation, disbursement, distribution, sale, purchase, or possession of any species of non-native (exotic) invasive plants.