New law expands protections for Alaska Native ivory handicrafts

What does this do?

This law updates the Marine Mammal Protection Act to clarify rules for Alaska Native handicrafts made from marine mammal parts like walrus ivory and whale teeth. It confirms coastal Alaska Natives can hunt marine mammals for subsistence or traditional handicrafts if not wasteful, sets rules requiring handmade methods without mass-production machines, and allows these goods to be sold across state lines while barring states from banning such sales. Federal officials can impose temporary limits if a species is at risk, but must publicly justify them with evidence, including Indigenous knowledge.

Who does it affect?

Alaska Native artisans, hunters, and communities that produce traditional handicrafts are directly affected, along with state governments and federal wildlife regulators overseeing marine mammal protections.

Why does it matter?

The law restricts state authority over interstate sale of marine mammal ivory and bone products while preserving federal power to restrict hunting if species are found at risk.

Where does it stand?