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US Bans Sale of Shark Fins

This new law prohibits the sale and trade of shark fins across the United States. It aims to protect global shark populations by removing the US from the international fin market. Limited exceptions exist for non-commercial uses and certain types of dogfish fins.
Key points
It is now illegal to buy, sell, possess, or transport shark fins or products containing them in the US.
Violating the ban can result in significant financial penalties.
Exceptions apply to legally obtained fins used for research, display, non-commercial personal use, or subsistence (if allowed by state/territory law).
Selling fresh or frozen raw fins or tails from certain dogfish species (smooth and spiny) is permitted.
States and territories can still enact their own, stricter laws regarding shark fins.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_S_1106
Sponsor: Sen. Booker, Cory A. [D-NJ]
Process start date: 2021-04-13
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-04-17
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Shark Fin Sales Elimination Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_S_1106.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-04-13.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • It is now illegal to buy, sell, possess, or transport shark fins or products containing them in the US.
  • Violating the ban can result in significant financial penalties.
  • Exceptions apply to legally obtained fins used for research, display, non-commercial personal use, or subsistence (if allowed by state/territory law).
  • Selling fresh or frozen raw fins or tails from certain dogfish species (smooth and spiny) is permitted.
  • States and territories can still enact their own, stricter laws regarding shark fins.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Booker, Cory A. [D-NJ].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-29.

CATEGORIES

Environment