Us Congress House Bill HB7840

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/29/24
• Refer: 3/29/24

Caption

ProTECT Act of 2024 Prohibiting Threatened and Endangered Creature Trophies Act of 2024

Impact

If passed, HB7840 would have significant implications for state laws and wildlife conservation efforts. The prohibition of trophy hunting and the associated importation of wildlife trophies is expected to strengthen protections for susceptible species that have been experiencing population declines. By addressing the loophole in the current Endangered Species Act, which does not extend full protections to threatened species, this bill aims to create a more comprehensive legal framework for wildlife conservation. Supporters argue that the changes will help mitigate the adverse effects of hunting on genetically important individuals within species, further promoting biodiversity and ecological health.

Summary

House Bill 7840, officially titled the 'Prohibiting Threatened and Endangered Creature Trophies Act of 2024' or the 'ProTECT Act of 2024', seeks to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to prohibit the taking of endangered and threatened species for trophies within the United States, as well as the importation of such trophies into the country. The intent of this legislation is to reinforce conservation efforts by eliminating incentives that promote trophy hunting, which threatens wildlife populations and undermines genetic variability and social structures within species. The bill highlights concerns around the negative impact that trophy hunting has on the survival rates of imperiled species and the potential rise in poaching associated with sanctioned hunting regulations.

Contention

This legislation has drawn considerable attention from various stakeholders. Proponents of HB7840, including conservation groups and several lawmakers, argue that the elimination of trophy hunting practices will contribute positively to wildlife conservation and public health. However, opponents may contend that the bill could infringe upon individual freedoms and the rights of hunters. Some critics suggest the regulations could impact communities economically dependent on regulated trophy hunting practices for tourism and revenue. The balance between conservation and economic interests remains a notable point of contention in the discussions surrounding this legislation.