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H.R. 6447

BillFederalHouseIn Committee
Saving NEMO Act
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · December 17, 2024
Referred to the Subcommittee on Trade.
Congress
118th (2023–2025)
Introduced
November 17, 2023
Sponsor
Cosponsors (1)
1D 0R
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Summary

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The Saving NEMO Act prohibits the capture, trade, and possession of certain marine reef species that are threatened by the aquarium and curio trade. The bill directs the Interior Secretary to designate protected coral reef species, including those listed under international endangered species agreements, and makes it illegal for anyone to catch, import, export, buy, sell, or transport these species within U.S. waters or commerce. The law allows limited exceptions for qualified breeding programs, scientifically-managed populations, aquaculture facilities, and scientific research, but bans use of destructive collection methods like explosives, poison, or reef-dredging. Violations carry civil penalties up to $25,000, criminal fines, and prison sentences of up to six months for individuals or two years for commercial traders, along with seizure and forfeiture of illegal animals and equipment. The bill takes effect one year after enactment and provides enforcement authority to the Departments of Interior, Commerce, Treasury, and the Coast Guard, as well as allowing private citizens to bring lawsuits against violators.

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