The Lacey Act
Year
The Lacey Act was enacted in 1900 when William McKinley signed the bill.
Events That led to the Enactment of the Lacey Act
The poaching of bison and slaughter of many other animals in the 1880s, along with the capture of the notorious poacher, Ed Howell, in 1894 led to the passage of the Lacey Act.
Controversy
Critics of the Lacey Act say that the law is too broad and ambiguous. It does not specify which animals it protects and has prosecuted different types of poachers.
What Does the Law Do?
The Lacey Act says that it is unlawful for anyone to import, export, sale, or receive any fish, plant, or wildlife taken in violation of any law, treaty or regulation of the United States, or Indian Tribal Law, whether in interstate or foreign commerce. It protects againt poaching and
other unlawful acts towards natural wildlife.
Impacts of the Law
The Lacey Act has had a profound impact on the export of all natural materials, and the recent amendment that was made last year dramatically impacted the business of tree exportation. it added these conditions that must be known before importation or exportation:
1. The scientific name of the plant
2. The value of the material
3. The quantity of the material
4. The name of the country from which the plant was taken
5. The average percentage of recycled material in the product