Ivory Ban Passes Senate, Barely
The Hawaii legislation prohibits the sale, purchase, trade or barter of “any part or product” from various animal and marine species.
A Hawaii bill banning the sale of ivory products narrowly passed the state Senate Monday.
Nine senators voted in favor, but six others voted “aye” with reservations, suggesting they are uneasy with the legislation.
Meanwhile, seven senators voted against the bill. Three others were excused.
Senate Bill 2647, which now heads to the House of Representatives for its consideration, does the following:
Prohibits the sale, offering to sell, purchase, trade, or barter of any part or product from various animal and marine species. Provides exceptions to this prohibition, including for traditional cultural practices protected under the state constitution.
A committee report for the bill said it was supported by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources, the Humane Society of the United States and the Global March for Elephants and Rhinos.
Opponents include the Hawaii Rifle Association, the Elephant Protection Association and the Whaler’s Locker Inc.
An ivory ban has been considered over the past few sessions at the Hawaii Legislature but has yet to pass.
