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.
Term Dictionary
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- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
Allows U.S. hunters to import polar bear trophies from Canadian sport hunts conducted before polar bears were listed as threatened in 2008.
Who wins, who loses
Wins: American trophy hunters with bears stuck in Canada since 2008, Alaskan and Canadian guide-outfitter businesses.
Loses: wildlife conservation groups, animal welfare advocates who say it rewards trophy hunting of a vulnerable species.
What it does
Amends Section 104(c)(5)(D) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972.
Requires Interior Secretary to issue import permits for bears legally killed before February 18, 1997.
Also covers bears killed before May 15, 2008 from approved populations.
Bypasses normal Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act review requirements.
Why should I care?
Supporters say hunters followed the law at the time, and trophies legally taken years ago shouldn't be trapped in Canada forever. Critics argue allowing imports rewards trophy hunting and weakens protections for a species threatened by climate change and shrinking sea ice. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.