H.R. 10867: Stopping Legalized Organized Trafficking and Harm to Sloths Act of 2026

This bill would make it illegal, with limited exceptions, to import any sloth species into the United States.

What is covered

The ban applies to any species in the sloth suborder (called Folivora). The bill treats a “person” broadly, so it would apply to individuals, companies, nonprofits, and other legal entities.

When importation would still be allowed

The bill creates two main exceptions:

• Research exception: A dead sloth, or part of one, could still be imported if the import is for research and the importer provides documentation acceptable to the Secretary of the Interior.

• Zoo or similar facility exception: A sloth could be imported if it is being moved to a “covered institution” and the move is part of that institution’s breeding program. The importer would also have to show, with documentation, that the sloth was not taken from the wild after the law takes effect.

A “covered institution” means an accredited zoo, aquarium, or similar facility accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Penalties for violating the ban

Someone who violates the law could face:

• Civil penalties of up to $20,000 per violation, after notice and an opportunity for a hearing.

• Criminal fines of up to $100,000 if the violation was knowing.

• Loss of federal permits or licenses related to importing or exporting wildlife, plants, or operating quarantine stations or rescue centers for imported wildlife or plants.

Each separate violation could be treated as its own offense.

Seizure and forfeiture

Any sloth imported illegally would be subject to seizure and forfeiture by the United States. The bill says existing customs laws would generally apply to handling seizures, forfeitures, and related court procedures. It also says a person convicted of, or penalized for, violating the law would have to pay the costs of storing, caring for, and maintaining any seized sloth.

Agency authority

The Secretary of the Interior would be responsible for enforcing the law. The bill also states that the government would not owe compensation, reimbursement, or damages just because a federal license or permit is canceled under this section.

Relevant Companies

• None found