HR3538-119

What This Bill Does

This bill establishes a Wildlife Confiscations Network to help federal law enforcement agencies find proper homes for live animals seized during wildlife trafficking investigations. Currently, when officers at U.S. ports of entry confiscate illegally trafficked exotic animals, they often lack the facilities, expertise, and contacts to care for them properly. This legislation creates a coordinated system connecting law enforcement with zoos, aquariums, wildlife sanctuaries, and universities that can provide long-term care.

Who Benefits and How

Accredited zoos, aquariums, and wildlife sanctuaries gain access to federal funding and a formal role in wildlife enforcement. They may receive confiscated animals along with financial support for their care. Professional zoological associations like the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) benefit by being designated as the federal government's primary partner in running the Network. Federal wildlife enforcement officers benefit from streamlined procedures and a single point of contact when they need to place seized animals.

Who Bears the Burden and How

Federal taxpayers fund the program at $5 million per year from 2026 through 2030, totaling $25 million over five years. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service must administer the new program, creating additional responsibilities for the agency. Facilities that join the Network must undergo a review process and meet qualifications for animal care.

Key Provisions

• Creates a voluntary Wildlife Confiscations Network within the Department of the Interior
• Partners with a professional accrediting zoological association (such as AZA) to run the Network
• Establishes a database of qualified animal care facilities (zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries, universities, rescue organizations)
• Creates a review committee to approve or reject facility applications to join the Network
• Authorizes $5 million annually for fiscal years 2026-2030 to fund the program