The demand for ejiao has led to the slaughter of millions of donkeys annually, significantly affecting their populations, especially in regions like Africa and Latin America where communities rely on these animals for survival. The bill's proponents argue that by enforcing these restrictions, it would help mitigate the harmful impact of this trade on both donkey populations and the rural communities that depend on them. Furthermore, it highlights the unnecessary nature of using donkey skins in the production of certain consumer products, suggesting that plant-based alternatives are available.
Summary
House Bill 6021, known as the Ejiao Act of 2023, aims to ban the transportation, sale, and purchase of donkeys and donkey hides for the purpose of producing ejiao, a gelatin used in traditional Chinese medicine and luxury products. The bill also prohibits the import, export, and sale of products containing ejiao in the United States. The primary objective of this legislation is to address the severe decline in global donkey populations due to the excessive demand for their skins, particularly in China and other regions.
Contention
Opposition to the bill may arise from industries that rely on ejiao for their products, as well as from those who believe that the measure could unfairly disrupt trade and local economies that benefit from the donkey skin industry. Advocates for animal rights and environmental conservation generally support the bill, labeling it as a necessary step toward protecting animal welfare and preserving biodiversity. Nonetheless, finding a balance between economic interests and ethical concerns will be crucial as the bill moves through the legislative process.