S 255 United States Senate · 119th Congress

Archie Cavanaugh Migratory Bird Treaty Amendment Act

This bill clarifies that Alaska Native artisans can legally possess, sell, or transport traditional handicrafts containing nonedible parts of migratory birds, as long as the items meet specific criteria. It defines "authentic Alaska Native articles of handicraft" as items made using traditional methods with natural materials, created by Alaska Natives (verified through Tribal enrollment, CDIB, or Silver Hand permits), and without mass production. The law explicitly permits these activities under international bird treaties, but prohibits it if the bird parts were obtained wastefully or illegally. This directly affects Alaska Native artisans whose traditional crafts use migratory bird parts, ensuring their cultural practices align with treaty obligations.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
President
Introduced Jan 24, 2025 Last action Jan 24, 2025
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2
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Committee
1
Jan 24, 2025
Committee
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
upper
Jan 24, 2025
Introduced
Introduced in Senate
upper
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

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