Define: Lacey Act

The Lacey Act is a federal law in the United States that prohibits the trade of illegally sourced plants, wildlife, and fish.

The Lacey Act covers a wide range of activities, including the import, export, transport, sale, and purchase of protected species and their products.

Violations of the Lacey Act can result in both civil and criminal penalties. Civil penalties can include fines, forfeiture of assets, and revocation of permits, while criminal penalties can lead to imprisonment and substantial fines.

The Lacey Act defines “illegally sourced” as any plant, wildlife, or fish that has been taken, possessed, transported, or sold in violation of any federal, state, tribal, or foreign law.

The Lacey Act is enforced by several federal agencies, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Yes, individuals can be held liable for Lacey Act violations, including importers, exporters, transporters, sellers, and purchasers of protected species and their products.

Yes, there are certain exemptions to the Lacey Act, such as for scientific research, certain musical instruments made before specific dates, and certain plants and plant products.

Yes, unintentional violations of the Lacey Act can still result in penalties. The law does not require intent for a violation to occur, and penalties can be imposed regardless of intent.

Yes, the Lacey Act applies to international trade, as it prohibits the import and export of illegally sourced plants, wildlife, and fish.

To ensure compliance with the Lacey Act, individuals should conduct due diligence to verify the legality of the plants, wildlife, and fish they trade, including obtaining proper permits and documentation, and working with reputable suppliers who follow sustainable and legal practices.