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HR 6021

Archie Cavanaugh Migratory Bird Treaty Amendment Act

119th Congress

HR 6021 allows Alaska Natives to legally possess and sell traditional handicrafts made with nonedible migratory bird parts, supporting cultural heritage and local economies.

Introduced in House
1
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 6021

Summary of HR 6021: Archie Cavanaugh Migratory Bird Treaty Amendment Act

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HR 6021
  • Title: Archie Cavanaugh Migratory Bird Treaty Amendment Act
  • Status: Introduced in House
  • Introduced: November 12, 2025
  • Referred to: House Committee on Natural Resources

Purpose of the Bill

The primary intent of HR 6021 is to amend the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) to clarify the legal status of authentic Alaska Native articles of handicraft that contain nonedible parts of migratory birds. This amendment aims to support the cultural practices of Alaska Natives while ensuring compliance with international treaties regarding migratory birds.

Key Provisions

  1. Definitions:

    • Alaska Native: Defined as a member of any Indian Tribe based in Alaska, verified through specific documentation such as a Tribal enrollment card or a Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood.
    • Authentic Alaska Native Article of Handicraft: This includes items made primarily from natural materials that are foraged or gifted, and produced by Alaska Natives using traditional methods without mass production techniques.

  2. Clarification of Legal Status:

    • The bill explicitly states that authentic Alaska Native articles of handicraft containing nonedible migratory bird parts can be possessed, sold, bartered, and transported without violating the MBTA, provided that the migratory bird parts were not obtained illegally or wastefully.

  3. Regulatory Actions:

    • Within 180 days of enactment, the Secretary of State and the Secretary of the Interior are required to establish bilateral procedures with treaty partner countries to clarify the treatment of these articles under international agreements.

  4. Technical Amendment:

    • A minor technical amendment is included to correct punctuation in the existing MBTA.

Impact of the Bill

  • Cultural Preservation: This bill is expected to enhance the ability of Alaska Natives to create and sell traditional handicrafts, thereby preserving cultural heritage and supporting local economies.
  • Legal Clarity: By clarifying the legal framework surrounding the use of migratory bird parts in handicrafts, the bill aims to reduce confusion and potential legal issues for Alaska Natives engaged in these practices.
  • International Relations: The bill may also strengthen diplomatic relations with countries involved in the migratory bird treaties by ensuring that the rights of Alaska Natives are recognized and respected.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources on November 12, 2025. Further legislative actions will determine its progression through Congress.

This summary provides a clear understanding of HR 6021, its objectives, and the implications for Alaska Native communities and migratory bird conservation efforts.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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