Legislative Alert: H.R.7371 and Its Potential Impact on Aviculture – March 2, 2026
H.R.7371 was introduced in response to illegal cockfighting operations, including the trafficking of fighting birds from Texas to Asia. The intent of the bill is to address the illegal shipment of cockfighting birds through commercial airlines and to strengthen aviation safety and biosecurity.
While stopping illegal activity is important and necessary, legislation written to address one specific issue can sometimes expand beyond its original intent. This bill proposes restrictions on transporting “certain live animals” by air in interstate and foreign commerce. Language like this raises concerns within the avicultural community because it may not be narrowly limited to fighting birds.
Responsible bird breeders, conservation programs, zoos, and aviculturists rely on the legal and regulated transport of birds for conservation breeding, species preservation, research, and responsible breeding programs. If the language in this bill is interpreted broadly, it could unintentionally impact legitimate aviculture and the movement of many bird species, including pheasants, waterfowl, parrots, and other birds maintained by responsible breeders.
History has shown that laws created to address illegal activities can sometimes be expanded later through regulation or amendment, potentially affecting additional species and legitimate programs.
For these reasons, members of the avicultural community should stay informed and monitor the progress of H.R.7371 as it moves through Congress. Protecting responsible aviculture, conservation breeding efforts, and the lawful movement of birds will be critical as this legislation develops.
APWS, President

 

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/7371/text?s=2&r=1&hl=H.R.+7371 

 

While we generally do not recommend form letters or “chain” letters when advocating for your rights, The Calvary Group has created a petition in support of H.R. 7371 that you may choose to review and sign. The petition page also provides information to help you identify and contact your elected representatives directly. We encourage you to read the information carefully, evaluate the issue for yourself, and decide which form of advocacy best reflects your views.

Important – To Amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973

Contact Your Representative. All Information (Except Text) for H.R.102 – To amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to prevent a species that is not native to the United States from being listed as an endangered species or a threatened species, to prohibit certain types of financial assistance, and for other purposes.

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/102/all-infos=6&r=3&q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22endangered+species+act%22%7D&allSummaries=show

  • How to Find Your Members in the US Congress

https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member

  • How to Find Your Representative

https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative

 

  • Captive Bred Wildlife Permit Information

  • USDA is still accepting written comments until October 29, 2020 

http://beta.regulations.gov/documents/APHIS-2020-0068-0001

  • (There are 5 questions USDA is asking for input on currently)

  • USDA Animal Care Welfare Inspection Procedures for Birds FAQ Updated Feb 22, 2022

        https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalwelfare/new-bird-rule/awa-standards-for-birds-faq

  • How do I apply for license or registration under the AWA?
    To learn more about licensing or registration under the AWA or to apply, please visit the USDA APHIS website:

          http://www.aphis.usda.gov/animalwelfare/apply

 

  • (Updated Mach 20, 2024) – On February 21, 2023, APHIS published a final rule in the Federal Register establishing new welfare standards for birds. These regulations ensure the humane handling, care, treatment, and transportation of birds regulated under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA).

    APHIS phased in the avian regulations for current and new licensees and registrants:

    • August 21, 2023: Currently licensed or registered facilities must become compliant.
    • February 21, 2024: New licensees or registrants must become compliant.

    This page provides a general overview of the welfare standards for birds and includes resources to help current and new licensees and registrants be compliant.

    https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-9/chapter-I/subchapter-A/part-3/subpart-G

  • USDA Animal Care Welfare Inspection Procedures for Birds – Last Modified: February 19, 2024

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/awa/bird-standards/faq

  • AWA Standards for Birds Last Modified: April 01, 2024

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/awa/bird-standards

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