AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Apr 8, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 11, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- The bill clarifies that the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (MBTA) does not prohibit possessing, selling, bartering, purchasing, shipping, or transporting Alaska Native handicrafts, clothing, or art containing nonedible migratory bird parts
- The exception applies only when the bird was not taken in a wasteful or illegal manner
- The MBTA implements four international treaties with Canada, Mexico, Japan, and Russia regarding protected migratory bird species
- The bill directs the Department of State and Department of the Interior to enter into bilateral procedures with treaty partner countries to clarify treatment of Alaska Native handicrafts containing migratory bird parts
- The Interior Department must modify MBTA regulations to implement the bill's provisions
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Alaska Native artisans would gain explicit legal clarity to trade handicrafts containing nonedible bird parts without MBTA prohibition
- International treaty procedures would be established to align partner countries' understanding of the exemption
- MBTA regulatory changes would be required to reflect the new exemption
- The bill does not specify whether effects on migratory bird populations or enforcement practices are expected
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Bill was introduced in House on November 12, 2025
- Referred to House Committee on Natural Resources on November 12, 2025
- Committee on Natural Resources reported an amended version on August 27, 2026
- Bill was placed on Union Calendar No. 675 on August 27, 2026
Legislative History
Actions.
- Aug 27, 2026 — Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 675.
- Aug 27, 2026 — Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Natural Resources. H. Rept. 119-774.
- Aug 27, 2026 — Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Natural Resources. H. Rept. 119-774.
- Jul 22, 2026 — Ordered to be Reported in the Nature of a Substitute (Amended) by Unanimous Consent.
- Jul 22, 2026 — Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries Discharged
- Feb 4, 2026 — Subcommittee Hearings Held
- Jan 28, 2026 — Referred to the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries.
- Nov 12, 2025 — Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.