Bill would shield Alaska Native ivory crafts from state sales bans

What does this do?

The ARTIST Act updates the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to more clearly define "authentic Alaska Native article" as items made by traditional hand methods, not machines or mass production. It bars states from banning sale, trade, or possession of marine mammal ivory, bone, or baleen used in such handicrafts, and sets stricter evidence, hearing, and justification requirements before federal officials can restrict subsistence hunting.

Who does it affect?

Alaska Native artisans, hunters, and coastal communities who rely on marine mammal materials for traditional crafts and subsistence. State governments with existing ivory sale restrictions and federal wildlife regulators overseeing marine mammal protections are also affected.

Why does it matter?

The changes would limit states' ability to restrict ivory sales and make it harder for federal regulators to impose new hunting restrictions without stronger evidence and public process.

Where does it stand?