Bruce Westerman

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Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6021, the Archie Cavanaugh Migratory Bird Treaty Clarification Act, sponsored by Representative Begich of Alaska. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act protects more than 900 species of migratory birds and plays an important role in conserving these species. However, the law also created challenges for Alaska Native communities whose longstanding cultural traditions include using migratory bird feathers and other nonedible bird parts in traditional handicrafts and artwork. In 2012, Alaska Native artist Archie Cavanaugh faced Federal charges after attempting to sell traditional artwork containing flicker and raven feathers. He faced up to 10 years in prison and a $100,000 fine, but a settlement was reached in which he agreed to pay a $2,000 fine. H.R. 6021 addresses this unfairness by directing appropriate updates to the Migratory Bird Treaty with Japan and any subsequent revisions to domestic regulations that may be necessary to clarify that authentic Alaska Native handicrafts containing nonedible bird parts may be sold and shipped, provided those parts were not taken in a wasteful or illegal manner. I commend Representative Begich for his work with the Alaska Native communities to preserve their cultural traditions while maintaining important protections for birds. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 6021, and I reserve the balance of my time.