Migratory Bird Protection Act of 2024

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Introduced on October 11, 2024 by Jared Huffman

Cosponsors

Legislation Details

  • Amends the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to clarify that the prohibition on unauthorized take or killing of migratory birds includes incidental take.
  • Directs the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to authorize incidental take of migratory birds.
  • Establishes civil penalties for unauthorized incidental take, with a maximum penalty of $10,000 per violation.
  • Allows the Secretary to initiate civil actions for incidental take violations.
  • Prohibits incidental take of migratory birds without authorization from the Secretary.
  • Requires the Secretary to promulgate regulations for authorizing incidental take, including issuing general permits.
  • Mandates that no penalties be assessed without prior notice and an opportunity for a hearing.
  • Authorizes the collection of fees for administering the incidental take program, which can be used for administrative costs and conservation efforts.
  • Creates the Migratory Bird Recovery Fund to manage collected fees and other funds for bird conservation.
  • Authorizes $10 million annually for the implementation of the incidental take provisions.
  • Requires the Secretary to report to Congress every five years on the conservation status of migratory birds and the impacts of authorized activities.
  • Establishes a research program to monitor bird populations, understand stressors, and develop mitigation measures for conservation.

Last updated 12/17/2024