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Coral Reef Protection: Ban on Trade and Taking of Threatened Marine Species.

This Act prohibits the taking, import, and export of designated marine reef species that are threatened or whose collection poses a substantial risk to their sustainability. The goal is to protect coral reef ecosystems and ensure the survival of these species. Citizens and businesses involved in the aquarium or marine organism trade must comply with strict new regulations, including high civil penalties and potential imprisonment for knowing violations.
Key points
Prohibition on taking, importing, or exporting designated marine reef species, particularly those listed in CITES Appendix II or determined to be at substantial risk of harm.
Imposition of severe civil penalties (up to $25,000 per violation) and criminal penalties (up to 2 years imprisonment) for knowingly violating the prohibitions, especially for importers and exporters.
Exceptions are provided for species sourced from qualified aquaculture/mariculture facilities, cooperative breeding programs, or taken under approved scientifically-based management plans.
A complete ban on destructive collection practices, such as the use of explosives, poisons, or reef-dredging, even under otherwise permitted exceptions.
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Introduced
Citizen Poll
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Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_2176
Sponsor: Rep. Case, Ed [D-HI-1]
Process start date: 2025-03-18