Wildlife Trafficking Prevention Act: Oregon's Fight Against Illegal Wildlife Trade
In 2016, voters in the state of Oregon took a decisive stand against the global illegal trade of endangered species. Through Ballot Measure 100, known as the Wildlife Trafficking Prevention Act, the state significantly expanded its legal framework to prohibit the commercialization of parts and products derived from high-risk nonnative wildlife.
Before this measure was enacted, Oregon's restrictions on nonnative animal products were minimal, with only shark fins being banned from sale. The passage of Measure 100 represented a major shift in state policy, following a failed attempt to pass similar legislation through the Oregon State Legislature in 2015.
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Key Facts
- Effective Date: July 1, 2017.
- Core Prohibition: Bans the purchase, sale, or possession with intent to sell parts from specified nonnative species.
- Voter Approval: Passed with 69.45% of the vote.
- Scope: Largely banned the ivory trade within the state of Oregon.
- Geographic Support: Won in 24 out of 36 Oregon counties.
Protected Species and Prohibitions
The Wildlife Trafficking Prevention Act targets a specific list of nonnative wildlife species to curb the demand for their parts. The act prohibits the commercial trade of products derived from the following animals:
- Elephants and Rhinoceroses
- Whales
- Big Cats: Tigers, Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs, and Jaguars
- Pangolins
- Sea Turtles
- Sharks and Rays
Legal Exceptions
To ensure that the law does not hinder essential services or cultural rights, the act includes several specific exceptions. These include activities authorized by federal law and actions taken for law enforcement purposes. Additionally, the law permits:
- The transfer of certain musical instruments and antiques.
- Donations made for educational or scientific purposes.
- Non-commercial transfers, such as gifts or inheritances.
- Possession by enrolled members of federally recognized tribes.
Election Results and Public Support
The measure saw strong backing from a coalition of prominent wildlife conservation organizations, including WildAid, the International Fund for Animal Welfare, the Wildlife Conservation Society, the National Wildlife Federation, and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Notably, no opposing statements were filed for the state's official voters' pamphlet.
The final vote count showed overwhelming public support, with over 1.3 million "Yes" votes compared to approximately 574,000 "No" votes.
| Vote Choice | Total Votes | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | 1,306,213 | 69.45% |
| No | 574,631 | 30.55% |
| Total | 1,880,844 | 100.00% |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the Wildlife Trafficking Prevention Act?
The primary goal is to prevent the purchase, sale, or possession with intent to sell parts and products from specific nonnative wildlife species, effectively curbing the illegal wildlife trade and the ivory trade within Oregon.
Which animals are protected under this act?
The act protects elephants, rhinoceroses, whales, tigers, lions, leopards, cheetahs, jaguars, pangolins, sea turtles, sharks, and rays.
Are there any exceptions for personal items?
Yes. The act allows for non-commercial transfers through gifts or inheritance, as well as the transfer of certain antiques and musical instruments.
When did this law officially take effect?
The Wildlife Trafficking Prevention Act took effect on July 1, 2017.
Who supported the passage of Measure 100?
The measure was supported by several conservation groups, including the Wildlife Conservation Society, WildAid, the National Wildlife Federation, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and the International Fund for Animal Welfare.