Combating Online Wildlife Trafficking Act of 2021

Bill 117 HR 1546, also known as the Combating Online Wildlife Trafficking Act of 2021, aims to address the issue of illegal wildlife trafficking through online platforms. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 1, 2021, by Representative Mike Quigley from Illinois.

The main purpose of this legislation is to strengthen enforcement efforts against the illegal trade of wildlife and wildlife products online. It seeks to enhance coordination between federal agencies, such as the Department of Justice and the Department of the Interior, to combat this illicit activity. The bill also aims to improve data collection and analysis related to online wildlife trafficking, as well as increase penalties for those found guilty of engaging in such activities.

Additionally, the Combating Online Wildlife Trafficking Act of 2021 includes provisions to promote international cooperation in combating wildlife trafficking and to support efforts to raise awareness about the issue. The bill also calls for the development of a national strategy to address online wildlife trafficking and requires regular reporting to Congress on the progress made in implementing this strategy. Overall, this legislation seeks to address the growing problem of illegal wildlife trafficking through online platforms by enhancing enforcement efforts, improving coordination between federal agencies, and promoting international cooperation. It represents a bipartisan effort to protect endangered species and combat the illegal trade of wildlife products.