Bill > HB994

This bill introduces comprehensive restrictions on the purchase, sale, and possession of animal parts and products from specific endangered or vulnerable species, including various large mammals, marine animals, and primates. The legislation prohibits transactions involving parts from these "covered animals" with a few narrow exceptions, such as government law enforcement activities, expressly authorized federal actions, and certain antique or musical instrument contexts where the animal part is a small fixed component. The bill establishes a graduated civil penalty system with fines ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the value of the animal part and whether it is a first or subsequent violation. Enforcement mechanisms include potential seizure of the animal parts by wildlife commissions, with options to use them for educational purposes, donate them to scientific institutions, or destroy them. The bill also provides detailed definitions of covered animals (which include species like elephants, cheetahs, dolphins, and tigers) and what constitutes a "sale" or "covered animal part or product". Notably, the legislation will take effect six months after its passage, allowing time for businesses and individuals to understand and comply with the new regulations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=994