Wildlife Conservation and Anti-Trafficking Act: Whistleblower Rewards and Funding
This act strengthens wildlife conservation and anti-trafficking efforts by introducing whistleblower rewards and increasing funding for conservation programs. Citizens can report violations and receive compensation, which aims to more effectively prosecute criminals and protect endangered species. Additionally, the act streamlines the use of funds from wildlife-related penalties for conservation purposes.
Key points
Whistleblower Rewards: Individuals reporting illegal wildlife trafficking can receive 10% to 30% of penalties imposed on offenders if the total sanction exceeds $100,000.
Enhanced Conservation Funding: Funds from wildlife crime penalties will be directly allocated to programs protecting endangered species like elephants, rhinos, tigers, great apes, birds, and marine turtles.
Combating Illegal Fishing: The act increases resources and powers to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, classifying these offenses as money laundering predicates.
International Cooperation: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officers will be stationed abroad to assist local authorities in combating poaching and trafficking, and to raise public awareness.
Expired
Citizen Poll