Bill > SB945

This bill amends Pennsylvania law to prohibit the purchase, sale, offer for sale, or possession with intent to sell parts or products from a specific list of 24 animal species, including endangered and vulnerable animals like elephants, cheetahs, gorillas, tigers, and various whale and shark species. The legislation establishes exceptions for government employees conducting official duties, activities expressly authorized by federal law, and certain antique or musical instrument items containing small amounts (less than 200 grams) of these animal parts. The commission may grant permits for educational or scientific institutions to possess such items if they were legally acquired. Civil penalties for violations range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the value of the animal part and whether it is a first or subsequent offense. The bill allows the commission to seize and potentially destroy or donate confiscated animal parts, and requires the commission to create regulations for implementing the law. The definition of "sale" includes commercial transactions within Pennsylvania, whether the buyer takes possession in the state or the seller is located there. The act will go into effect six months after passage, giving stakeholders time to adjust to the new requirements.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=945