Federal wildlife law updated to allow Alaska Native bird-part handicrafts
Passed one chamberH.R. 6021Latest action
Sponsor: Nicholas J. Begich III · Representative · AK
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Official title: Archie Cavanaugh Migratory Bird Treaty Amendment Act
119th Congress
Topics: Family & community
Introduced:
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HR 6021 lets verified Alaska Natives legally make, sell, and ship traditional handicrafts containing non-edible bird parts such as feathers or talons.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
HR 6021 amends the Migratory Bird Act to add a specific exemption for Alaska Native traditional handicrafts. Items that are handmade by a verified Alaska Native using natural materials and traditional techniques may legally contain non-edible bird parts, including feathers, beaks, and talons, and may be bought, sold, traded, or shipped. The exemption does not apply when bird parts came from birds that were killed illegally or wastefully.
Who does it affect?
The exemption covers Alaska Natives who create and sell traditional artwork, as well as buyers, traders, and shippers of those items. The general public and non-Native artists are not covered.
Why does it matter?
Federal wildlife enforcement agencies will need to update how they apply the Migratory Bird Act. The State Department and Interior Department are directed to update international agreements and federal regulations within 180 days, and to coordinate with Canada, Mexico, Japan, and Russia so the exemption is recognized internationally.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedNov 12, 2025
- House committee
- House vote
- SenateYou are here · Sep 15, 2026
- The president's desk
Right now: it passed the House, and the official record shows nothing new since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.