Bans Importing Sloths Except for Research
HR10867-119 · Introduced Oct 22, 2026
Why it matters
Zoos and researchers would need documents proving a sloth was not taken from the wild. People who break the rule could lose federal permits and pay steep fines.
What it does
- Makes it illegal to import any sloth from the suborder Folivora
- Allows imports of dead sloths or parts for approved research
- Allows moving sloths to zoos or aquariums accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums
- Sets civil penalties up to $20,000 per violation, after notice and a hearing
- Sets criminal fines up to $100,000 for knowing violations
In committee
Next: a committee vote
- Introduceddone
- Committeecurrent step
- Housenot yet
- Senatenot yet
- Presidentnot yet
About this bill
Would make it illegal to import sloths, with exceptions for dead specimens used in research and moves to accredited zoos. Violators face fines and could lose federal permits.
Stopping Legalized Organized Trafficking and Harm to Sloths Act of 2026
Perspectives
💬 The case for
Animal welfare groups would likely say the ban stops illegal wildlife trafficking of sloths. They could argue that strict penalties make smuggling less worthwhile.
💬 The case against
Some researchers would likely say the paperwork rules make legitimate studies harder. Zoos may also worry about the cost of proving animals were not taken from the wild.
Sponsored by
Sponsor details for this federal bill are at the source link.
News
Loading coverage…