SLOTHS Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Rep. Frost, Maxwell [D-FL-10]
- Committees
- Natural Resources Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Oct 22, 2026
Bottom line
The SLOTHS Act of 2026 aims to end the commercial and private importation of live sloths into the United States, with strict penalties for violations, while allowing limited exceptions for scientific research and accredited zoo breeding programs.
What it actually does
This bill, known as the SLOTHS Act of 2026, prohibits the importation of all species of sloths (suborder Folivora) into the United States. It establishes narrow exceptions for dead sloths imported for research purposes and live sloths imported for accredited zoo breeding programs, provided they were not taken from the wild after the bill's enactment. Violations are subject to significant civil and criminal penalties, including fines and the cancellation of federal import/export licenses.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue this bill is crucial for protecting sloth populations from illegal wildlife trafficking and reducing demand that fuels the capture of wild sloths, often under inhumane conditions. They contend it supports conservation efforts by limiting commercial exploitation and ensuring sloths in accredited institutions are part of ethical breeding programs.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that the bill is overly broad, potentially hindering legitimate educational or conservation efforts by smaller, non-accredited facilities or individuals who care for sloths. Some might also raise concerns about the severity of penalties or the administrative burden on the Secretary of the Interior for managing exceptions.
The bill is concise and easily digestible, allowing ample time for informed evaluation by interested parties.
Section 2(a)
General Prohibition on Sloth Importation
This provision makes it illegal for any person to import any individual of a covered sloth species (all species of the suborder Folivora) into the United States. This establishes a blanket ban on the commercial and private importation of sloths, aiming to curb the demand side of the wildlife trade.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this direct prohibition is the most effective way to combat the illegal trade and exploitation of sloths, sending a clear message that the U.S. will not be a market for such activities.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that a blanket ban could inadvertently impact legitimate, ethical private ownership or small rescue operations that might not qualify for the narrow exceptions.
Tradeoffs
Balances strict conservation measures against potential impacts on niche private animal keeping or smaller non-accredited facilities.
Section 2(b)
Research and Accredited Breeding Program Exceptions
The bill allows two specific exceptions to the import ban. First, dead sloths or parts can be imported for research purposes with documentation. Second, live sloths can be imported for accredited zoo or aquarium breeding programs, provided they were not taken from the wild after the bill's enactment and proper documentation is provided to the Secretary of the Interior.
Section 2(c)
Civil and Criminal Penalties
This section establishes civil penalties of not more than $20,000 for each violation and criminal fines of not more than $100,000 for knowingly violating the import prohibition. Each violation is considered a separate offense. Additionally, the Secretary must cancel any federal license or permit related to importing/exporting fish, wildlife, or plants, or operating quarantine stations, for persons found in violation.
Section 2(d)
Forfeiture of Illegally Imported Sloths and Application of Customs Laws
Any sloth imported illegally is subject to forfeiture to the U.S. The bill applies existing customs laws regarding seizure, forfeiture, and condemnation of property to these cases, allowing the Secretary of the Interior to exercise powers typically held by the Treasury Department. Convicted persons are also liable for storage, care, and maintenance costs of seized sloths.
States that the Secretary of the Interior is not liable for any compensation, reimbursement, or damages if a federal license, permit, or authorization is cancelled due to a violation of this Act.
Section 2(c)(4)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice to protect the government from claims arising from enforcement actions, rather than an attempt to obscure a controversial policy.
Case for: Proponents argue this clause is necessary to prevent frivolous lawsuits against the government and ensure that enforcement actions, such as license cancellations, can be taken without fear of financial repercussions for the Secretary.
Case against: Critics might argue that in cases of administrative error or disputed violations, this clause could leave individuals or businesses without recourse for damages incurred due to an erroneous license cancellation.
Estimated impact: Prevents potential future claims against the federal government, likely saving an indeterminate amount in legal defense and potential compensation costs.