Bill > HR5544

This bill, known as the Ejiao Act of 2025, aims to prohibit the transportation, sale, and purchase of donkeys, donkey hides, and products containing ejiao in the United States. Ejiao is a gelatin made from donkey skins used in traditional Chinese medicine and luxury products. The bill highlights the devastating global impact of the donkey skin trade, which has led to significant population declines in Africa and Latin America, particularly harming impoverished communities that depend on donkeys for essential daily tasks. The legislation establishes both civil and criminal penalties for individuals who import, export, transport, sell, receive, acquire, or purchase donkeys, donkey hides, or ejiao-containing products, with fines ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 and potential imprisonment up to 5 years for more serious violations. The bill also provides for the forfeiture of donkeys, donkey hides, products, and equipment used in illegal activities. Enforcement will be carried out by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Secretary of the Interior, with provisions for inspections, arrests, and rewards for information leading to successful prosecutions. The ultimate goal is to protect donkey populations and the vulnerable communities that rely on these animals for survival.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5544/all-info