CHAPTER 7—PROTECTION OF MIGRATORY GAME AND INSECTIVOROUS BIRDS

SUBCHAPTER I—GENERALLY

        

SUBCHAPTER II—MIGRATORY BIRD TREATY

        

SUBCHAPTER III—MIGRATORY BIRD CONSERVATION

        

SUBCHAPTER IV—HUNTING AND CONSERVATION STAMP TAX

        

SUBCHAPTER IV–A—PERMANENT ELECTRONIC DUCK STAMP

        

SUBCHAPTER V—JUNIOR DUCK STAMP CONSERVATION AND DESIGN PROGRAM

        

SUBCHAPTER I—GENERALLY

§701. Game and wild birds; preservation

The duties and powers of the Department of the Interior include the preservation, distribution, introduction, and restoration of game birds and other wild birds. The Secretary of the Interior is authorized to adopt such measures as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this Act, and to purchase such game birds and other wild birds as may be required therefor, subject, however, to the laws of the various States and Territories. The object and purpose of this Act is to aid in the restoration of such birds in those parts of the United States adapted thereto where the same have become scarce or extinct, and also to regulate the introduction of American or foreign birds or animals in localities where they have not heretofore existed.

The Secretary of the Interior shall from time to time collect and publish useful information as to the propagation, uses, and preservation of such birds.

And the Secretary of the Interior shall make and publish all needful rules and regulations for carrying out the purposes of this Act, and shall expend for said purposes such sums as Congress may appropriate therefor.

(May 25, 1900, ch. 553, §1, 31 Stat. 187; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This Act, referred to in text, is act May 25, 1900, section 1 of which is classified to this section. Sections 2 to 4 of the Act were repealed and restated by sections 241 to 244 of the Criminal Code of 1909 (approved Mar. 4, 1909, ch. 321) which were classified to sections 391 to 394 of former Title 18. Such sections were subsequently repealed and reenacted as sections 42 to 44 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure. Section 5 of the Act which was classified to section 667e of this title was repealed by Pub. L. 97–79, §9(b)(2), Nov. 16, 1981, 95 Stat. 1079.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, transferred functions of Secretary of Agriculture relating to conservation of wildlife, game, and migratory birds to Secretary of the Interior.

Ex. Ord. No. 13186. Responsibilities of Federal Agencies To Protect Migratory Birds

Ex. Ord. No. 13186, Jan. 10, 2001, 66 F.R. 3853, provided:

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, and in furtherance of the purposes of the migratory bird conventions, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703–711), the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Acts (16 U.S.C. 668–668d), the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (16 U.S.C. 661–666c [666c–1]), the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531–1544), the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321–4347), and other pertinent statutes, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Policy. Migratory birds are of great ecological and economic value to this country and to other countries. They contribute to biological diversity and bring tremendous enjoyment to millions of Americans who study, watch, feed, or hunt these birds throughout the United States and other countries. The United States has recognized the critical importance of this shared resource by ratifying international, bilateral conventions for the conservation of migratory birds. Such conventions include the Convention for the Protection of Migratory Birds with Great Britain on behalf of Canada 1916, the Convention for the Protection of Migratory Birds and Game Mammals-Mexico 1936, the Convention for the Protection of Birds and Their Environment-Japan 1972, and the Convention for the Conservation of Migratory Birds and Their Environment-Union of Soviet Socialist Republics 1978.

These migratory bird conventions impose substantive obligations on the United States for the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats, and through the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (Act), the United States has implemented these migratory bird conventions with respect to the United States. This Executive Order directs executive departments and agencies to take certain actions to further implement the Act.

Sec. 2. Definitions. For purposes of this order:

(a) "Take" means take as defined in 50 C.F.R. 10.12, and includes both "intentional" and "unintentional" take.

(b) "Intentional take" means take that is the purpose of the activity in question.

(c) "Unintentional take" means take that results from, but is not the purpose of, the activity in question.

(d) "Migratory bird" means any bird listed in 50 C.F.R. 10.13.

(e) "Migratory bird resources" means migratory birds and the habitats upon which they depend.

(f) "Migratory bird convention" means, collectively, the bilateral conventions (with Great Britain/Canada, Mexico, Japan, and Russia) for the conservation of migratory bird resources.

(g) "Federal agency" means an executive department or agency, but does not include independent establishments as defined by 5 U.S.C. 104.

(h) "Action" means a program, activity, project, official policy (such as a rule or regulation), or formal plan directly carried out by a Federal agency. Each Federal agency will further define what the term "action" means with respect to its own authorities and what programs should be included in the agency-specific Memoranda of Understanding required by this order. Actions delegated to or assumed by nonfederal entities, or carried out by nonfederal entities with Federal assistance, are not subject to this order. Such actions, however, continue to be subject to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

(i) "Species of concern" refers to those species listed in the periodic report "Migratory Nongame Birds of Management Concern in the United States," priority migratory bird species as documented by established plans (such as Bird Conservation Regions in the North American Bird Conservation Initiative or Partners in Flight physiographic areas), and those species listed in 50 C.F.R. 17.11.

Sec. 3. Federal Agency Responsibilities. (a) Each Federal agency taking actions that have, or are likely to have, a measurable negative effect on migratory bird populations is directed to develop and implement, within 2 years, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) that shall promote the conservation of migratory bird populations.

(b) In coordination with affected Federal agencies, the Service shall develop a schedule for completion of the MOUs within 180 days of the date of this order. The schedule shall give priority to completing the MOUs with agencies having the most substantive impacts on migratory birds.

(c) Each MOU shall establish protocols for implementation of the MOU and for reporting accomplishments. These protocols may be incorporated into existing actions; however, the MOU shall recognize that the agency may not be able to implement some elements of the MOU until such time as the agency has successfully included them in each agency's formal planning processes (such as revision of agency land management plans, land use compatibility guidelines, integrated resource management plans, and fishery management plans), including public participation and NEPA analysis, as appropriate. This order and the MOUs to be developed by the agencies are intended to be implemented when new actions or renewal of contracts, permits, delegations, or other third party agreements are initiated as well as during the initiation of new, or revisions to, land management plans.

(d) Each MOU shall include an elevation process to resolve any dispute between the signatory agencies regarding a particular practice or activity.

(e) Pursuant to its MOU, each agency shall, to the extent permitted by law and subject to the availability of appropriations and within Administration budgetary limits, and in harmony with agency missions:

(1) support the conservation intent of the migratory bird conventions by integrating bird conservation principles, measures, and practices into agency activities and by avoiding or minimizing, to the extent practicable, adverse impacts on migratory bird resources when conducting agency actions;

(2) restore and enhance the habitat of migratory birds, as practicable;

(3) prevent or abate the pollution or detrimental alteration of the environment for the benefit of migratory birds, as practicable;

(4) design migratory bird habitat and population conservation principles, measures, and practices, into agency plans and planning processes (natural resource, land management, and environmental quality planning, including, but not limited to, forest and rangeland planning, coastal management planning, watershed planning, etc.) as practicable, and coordinate with other agencies and nonfederal partners in planning efforts;

(5) within established authorities and in conjunction with the adoption, amendment, or revision of agency management plans and guidance, ensure that agency plans and actions promote programs and recommendations of comprehensive migratory bird planning efforts such as Partners-in-Flight, U.S. National Shorebird Plan, North American Waterfowl Management Plan, North American Colonial Waterbird Plan, and other planning efforts, as well as guidance from other sources, including the Food and Agricultural Organization's International Plan of Action for Reducing Incidental Catch of Seabirds in Longline Fisheries;

(6) ensure that environmental analyses of Federal actions required by the NEPA or other established environmental review processes evaluate the effects of actions and agency plans on migratory birds, with emphasis on species of concern;

(7) provide notice to the Service in advance of conducting an action that is intended to take migratory birds, or annually report to the Service on the number of individuals of each species of migratory birds intentionally taken during the conduct of any agency action, including but not limited to banding or marking, scientific collecting, taxidermy, and depredation control;

(8) minimize the intentional take of species of concern by: (i) delineating standards and procedures for such take; and (ii) developing procedures for the review and evaluation of take actions. With respect to intentional take, the MOU shall be consistent with the appropriate sections of 50 C.F.R. parts 10, 21, and 22;

(9) identify where unintentional take reasonably attributable to agency actions is having, or is likely to have, a measurable negative effect on migratory bird populations, focusing first on species of concern, priority habitats, and key risk factors. With respect to those actions so identified, the agency shall develop and use principles, standards, and practices that will lessen the amount of unintentional take, developing any such conservation efforts in cooperation with the Service. These principles, standards, and practices shall be regularly evaluated and revised to ensure that they are effective in lessening the detrimental effect of agency actions on migratory bird populations. The agency also shall inventory and monitor bird habitat and populations within the agency's capabilities and authorities to the extent feasible to facilitate decisions about the need for, and effectiveness of, conservation efforts;

(10) within the scope of its statutorily-designated authorities, control the import, export, and establishment in the wild of live exotic animals and plants that may be harmful to migratory bird resources;

(11) promote research and information exchange related to the conservation of migratory bird resources, including coordinated inventorying and monitoring and the collection and assessment of information on environmental contaminants and other physical or biological stressors having potential relevance to migratory bird conservation. Where such information is collected in the course of agency actions or supported through Federal financial assistance, reasonable efforts shall be made to share such information with the Service, the Biological Resources Division of the U.S. Geological Survey, and other appropriate repositories of such data (e.g, the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology);

(12) provide training and information to appropriate employees on methods and means of avoiding or minimizing the take of migratory birds and conserving and restoring migratory bird habitat;

(13) promote migratory bird conservation in international activities and with other countries and international partners, in consultation with the Department of State, as appropriate or relevant to the agency's authorities;

(14) recognize and promote economic and recreational values of birds, as appropriate; and

(15) develop partnerships with non-Federal entities to further bird conservation.

(f) Notwithstanding the requirement to finalize an MOU within 2 years, each agency is encouraged to immediately begin implementing the conservation measures set forth above in subparagraphs (1) through (15) of this section, as appropriate and practicable.

(g) Each agency shall advise the public of the availability of its MOU through a notice published in the Federal Register.

Sec. 4. Council for the Conservation of Migratory Birds. (a) The Secretary of Interior shall establish an interagency Council for the Conservation of Migratory Birds (Council) to oversee the implementation of this order. The Council's duties shall include the following: (1) sharing the latest resource information to assist in the conservation and management of migratory birds; (2) developing an annual report of accomplishments and recommendations related to this order; (3) fostering partnerships to further the goals of this order; and (4) selecting an annual recipient of a Presidential Migratory Bird Federal Stewardship Award for contributions to the protection of migratory birds.

(b) The Council shall include representation, at the bureau director/administrator level, from the Departments of the Interior, State, Commerce, Agriculture, Transportation, Energy, Defense, and the Environmental Protection Agency and from such other agencies as appropriate.

Sec. 5. Application and Judicial Review. (a) This order and the MOU to be developed by the agencies do not require changes to current contracts, permits, or other third party agreements.

(b) This order is intended only to improve the internal management of the executive branch and does not create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, separately enforceable at law or equity by a party against the United States, its agencies or instrumentalities, its officers or employees, or any other person.

William J. Clinton.      

§702. Importation of eggs of game birds for propagation

The Secretary of the Interior shall have the power to authorize the importation of eggs of game birds for purposes of propagation, and he shall prescribe all necessary rules and regulations governing the importation of eggs of said birds for such purposes.

(June 3, 1902, ch. 983, 32 Stat. 285; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433.)

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 701 of this title.

SUBCHAPTER II—MIGRATORY BIRD TREATY

§703. Taking, killing, or possessing migratory birds unlawful

(a) In general

Unless and except as permitted by regulations made as hereinafter provided in this subchapter, it shall be unlawful at any time, by any means or in any manner, to pursue, hunt, take, capture, kill, attempt to take, capture, or kill, possess, offer for sale, sell, offer to barter, barter, offer to purchase, purchase, deliver for shipment, ship, export, import, cause to be shipped, exported, or imported, deliver for transportation, transport or cause to be transported, carry or cause to be carried, or receive for shipment, transportation, carriage, or export, any migratory bird, any part, nest, or egg of any such bird, or any product, whether or not manufactured, which consists, or is composed in whole or part, of any such bird or any part, nest, or egg thereof, included in the terms of the conventions between the United States and Great Britain for the protection of migratory birds concluded August 16, 1916 (39 Stat. 1702), the United States and the United Mexican States for the protection of migratory birds and game mammals concluded February 7, 1936, the United States and the Government of Japan for the protection of migratory birds and birds in danger of extinction, and their environment concluded March 4, 1972, and the convention between the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics for the conservation of migratory birds and their environments concluded November 19, 1976.

(b) Limitation on application to introduced species

(1) In general

This subchapter applies only to migratory bird species that are native to the United States or its territories.

(2) Native to the United States defined

(A) In general

Subject to subparagraph (B), in this subsection the term "native to the United States or its territories" means occurring in the United States or its territories as the result of natural biological or ecological processes.

(B) Treatment of introduced species

For purposes of paragraph (1), a migratory bird species that occurs in the United States or its territories solely as a result of intentional or unintentional human-assisted introduction shall not be considered native to the United States or its territories unless—

(i) it was native to the United States or its territories and extant in 1918;

(ii) it was extirpated after 1918 throughout its range in the United States and its territories; and

(iii) after such extirpation, it was reintroduced in the United States or its territories as a part of a program carried out by a Federal agency.

(July 3, 1918, ch. 128, §2, 40 Stat. 755; June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §3, 49 Stat. 1556; Pub. L. 93–300, §1, June 1, 1974, 88 Stat. 190; Pub. L. 101–233, §15, Dec. 13, 1989, 103 Stat. 1977; Pub. L. 108–447, div. E, title I, §143(b), Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3071.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2004—Pub. L. 108–447 designated existing provisions as subsec. (a), inserted heading, and added subsec. (b).

1989—Pub. L. 101–233 struck out "and" after "1936," and inserted before period at end "and the convention between the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics for the conservation of migratory birds and their environments concluded November 19, 1976".

1974—Pub. L. 93–300 substituted ", any part, nest, or egg of any such bird, or any product, whether or not manufactured, which consists, or is composed in whole or part, of any such bird or any part, nest, or egg thereof" for ", or any part, nest, or egg of any such birds", and ", and the United States and the Government of Japan for the protection of migratory birds and birds in danger of extinction, and their environment concluded March 4, 1972." for period at end.

1936—Act June 20, 1936, amended section generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Unless and except as permitted by regulations made as hereinafter provided, it shall be unlawful to hunt, take, capture, kill, attempt to take, capture or kill, possess, offer for sale, sell, offer to purchase, purchase, deliver for shipment, ship, cause to be shipped, deliver for transportation, transport, cause to be transported, carry or cause to be carried by any means whatever, receive for shipment, transportation or carriage, or export, at any time or in any manner, any migratory bird, included in the terms of the convention between the United States and Great Britain for the protection of migratory birds concluded August sixteenth, nineteen hundred and sixteen, or any part, nest, or egg of any such bird."

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1974 Amendment

Pub. L. 93–300, §3, June 1, 1974, 88 Stat. 190, provided that: "The amendments made by this Act [amending this section] shall take effect on the date on which the President proclaims the exchange of ratifications of the convention between the United States and the Government of Japan for the protection of migratory birds and birds in danger of extinction, and their environment, concluded March 4, 1972, or on the date of the enactment of this Act [June 1, 1974], whichever date is later."

Effective Date of 1936 Amendment

Act June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §3, 49 Stat. 1556, provided in part that the amendment by section 3 is effective as of the day aforesaid, meaning the day on which the President shall proclaim the exchange of ratifications of the convention between the United States and the United Mexican States for the protection of migratory birds and game mammals concluded Feb. 7, 1936, or on June 20, 1936, whichever date is later. Such proclamation was made on June 30, 1937. See section 1 of act June 20, 1936, ch. 634, 49 Stat. 1555.

Elimination of Barriers To Improve At-Risk Bridges

Pub. L. 114–94, div. A, title I, §1439, Dec. 4, 2015, 129 Stat. 1433, provided that:

"(a) Temporary Authorization.—

"(1) In general.—Until the Secretary of the Interior takes the action described in subsection (b), the take of nesting swallows to facilitate a construction project on a bridge eligible for funding under title 23, United States Code, with any component condition rating of 3 or less (as defined by the National Bridge Inventory General Condition Guidance issued by the Federal Highway Administration) is authorized under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.) between April 1 and August 31.

"(2) Measures to minimize impacts.—

"(A) Notification before taking.—Prior to the taking of nesting swallows authorized under paragraph (1), any person taking that action shall submit to the Secretary of the Interior a document that contains—

"(i) the name of the person acting under the authority of paragraph (1) to take nesting swallows;

"(ii) a list of practicable measures that will be undertaken to minimize or mitigate significant adverse impacts on the population of that species;

"(iii) the time period during which activities will be carried out that will result in the taking of that species; and

"(iv) an estimate of the number of birds, by species, to be taken in the proposed action.

"(B) Notification after taking.—Not later than 60 days after the taking of nesting swallows authorized under paragraph (1), any person taking that action shall submit to the Secretary of the Interior a document that contains the number of birds, by species, taken in the action.

"(b) Authorization of Take.—

"(1) In general.—The Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Secretary [of Transportation], shall promulgate a regulation under the authority of section 3 of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 704) authorizing the take of nesting swallows to facilitate bridge repair, maintenance, or construction—

"(A) without individual permit requirements; and

"(B) under terms and conditions determined to be consistent with treaties relating to migratory birds that protect swallow species occurring in the United States.

"(2) Termination.—On the effective date of a final rule [promulgated] under this subsection by the Secretary of the Interior, subsection (a) shall have no force or effect.

"(c) Suspension or Withdrawal of Take Authorization.—If the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Secretary [of Transportation], determines that taking of nesting swallows carried out under the authority provided in subsection (a)(1) is having a significant adverse impact on swallow populations, the Secretary of the Interior may suspend that authority through publication in the Federal Register."

Publication of List

Pub. L. 108–447, div. E, title I, §143(c), Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3072, provided that:

"(1) In general.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this section [Dec. 8, 2004], the Secretary of the Interior shall publish in the Federal Register a list of all nonnative, human-introduced bird species to which the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.) does not apply. As necessary, the Secretary may update and publish the list of species exempted from protection of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

"(2) Public comment.—Before publishing the list under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall provide adequate time for public comment.

"(3) Effect of section.—Nothing in this subsection shall delay implementation of other provisions of this section [amending this section and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 710 of this title] or amendments made by this section that exclude nonnative, human-introduced bird species from the application of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.)."

Relationship of Pub. L. 108–447 to Treaties

Pub. L. 108–447, div. E, title I, §143(d), Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3072, provided that: "It is the sense of Congress that the language of this section [amending this section and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section and section 710 of this title] is consistent with the intent and language of the 4 bilateral treaties implemented by this section."

Incidental Taking of Migratory Birds During Military Readiness Activities

Pub. L. 107–314, div. A, title III, §315, Dec. 2, 2002, 116 Stat. 2509, provided that:

"(a) Interim Authority for Incidental Takings.—During the period described in subsection (c), section 2 of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703) shall not apply to the incidental taking of a migratory bird by a member of the Armed Forces during a military readiness activity authorized by the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of the military department concerned.

"(b) Identification of Measures to Minimize Impact of Activities.—During the periods described in subsections (c) and (d), the Secretary of Defense shall, in consultation with the Secretary of the Interior, identify measures—

"(1) to minimize and mitigate, to the extent practicable, any adverse impacts of authorized military readiness activities on affected species of migratory birds; and

"(2) to monitor the impacts of such military readiness activities on affected species of migratory birds.

"(c) Period of Application for Interim Authority.—The period described in this subsection is the period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 2, 2002] and ending on the date on which the Secretary of the Interior publishes in the Federal Register a notice that—

"(1) regulations authorizing the incidental taking of migratory birds by members of the Armed Forces have been prescribed in accordance with the requirements of subsection (d);

"(2) all legal challenges to the regulations and to the manner of their promulgation (if any) have been exhausted as provided in subsection (e); and

"(3) the regulations have taken effect.

"(d) Incidental Takings After Interim Period.—(1) Not later than the expiration of the one-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior shall exercise the authority of that Secretary under section 3(a) of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 704(a)) to prescribe regulations to exempt the Armed Forces for the incidental taking of migratory birds during military readiness activities authorized by the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of the military department concerned.

"(2) The Secretary of the Interior shall exercise authority under paragraph (1) with the concurrence of the Secretary of Defense.

"(e) Limitation on Judicial Review.—An action seeking judicial review of regulations prescribed pursuant to this section or of the manner of their promulgation must be filed in the appropriate Federal court by not later than the expiration of the 120-day period beginning on the date on which such regulations are published in the Federal Register. Upon the expiration of such period and the exhaustion of any legal challenges to the regulations pursuant to any action filed in such period, there shall be no further judicial review of such regulations or of the manner of their promulgation.

"(f) Military Readiness Activity.—(1) In this section the term 'military readiness activity' includes—

"(A) all training and operations of the Armed Forces that relate to combat; and

"(B) the adequate and realistic testing of military equipment, vehicles, weapons, and sensors for proper operation and suitability for combat use.

"(2) The term does not include—

"(A) the routine operation of installation operating support functions, such as administrative offices, military exchanges, commissaries, water treatment facilities, storage facilities, schools, housing, motor pools, laundries, morale, welfare, and recreation activities, shops, and mess halls;

"(B) the operation of industrial activities; or

"(C) the construction or demolition of facilities used for a purpose described in subparagraph (A) or (B)."

Arctic Tundra Habitat Emergency Conservation

Pub. L. 106–108, Nov. 24, 1999, 113 Stat. 1491, provided that:

"SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.

"This Act may be cited as the 'Arctic Tundra Habitat Emergency Conservation Act'.

"SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSES.

"(a) Findings.—The Congress finds the following:

"(1) The winter index population of mid-continent light geese was 800,000 birds in 1969, while the total population of such geese is more than 5,200,000 birds today.

"(2) The population of mid-continent light geese is expanding by over 5 percent each year, and in the absence of new wildlife management actions it could grow to more than 6,800,000 breeding light geese in 3 years.

"(3) The primary reasons for this unprecedented population growth are—

"(A) the expansion of agricultural areas and the resulting abundance of cereal grain crops in the United States;

"(B) the establishment of sanctuaries along the United States flyways of migrating light geese; and

"(C) a decline in light geese harvest rates.

"(4) As a direct result of this population explosion, the Hudson Bay Lowlands Salt-Marsh ecosystem in Canada is being systematically destroyed. This ecosystem contains approximately 135,000 acres of essential habitat for migrating light geese and many other avian species. Biologists have testified that one-third of this habitat has been destroyed, one-third is on the brink of devastation, and the remaining one-third is overgrazed.

"(5) The destruction of the Arctic tundra is having a severe negative impact on many avian species that breed or migrate through this habitat, including the following:

"(A) Canada Goose.

"(B) American Wigeon.

"(C) Dowitcher.

"(D) Hudsonian Godwit.

"(E) Stilt Sandpiper.

"(F) Northern Shoveler.

"(G) Red-Breasted Merganser.

"(H) Oldsquaw.

"(I) Parasitic Jaeger.

"(J) Whimbrel.

"(K) Yellow Rail.

"(6) It is essential that the current population of mid-continent light geese be reduced by 50 percent by the year 2005 to ensure that the fragile Arctic tundra is not irreversibly damaged.

"(b) Purposes.—The purposes of this Act are the following:

"(1) To reduce the population of mid-continent light geese.

"(2) To assure the long-term conservation of mid-continent light geese and the biological diversity of the ecosystem upon which many North American migratory birds depend.

"SEC. 3. FORCE AND EFFECT OF RULES TO CONTROL OVERABUNDANT MID-CONTINENT LIGHT GEESE POPULATIONS.

"(a) Force and Effect.—

"(1) In general.—The rules published by the Service on February 16, 1999, relating to use of additional hunting methods to increase the harvest of mid-continent light geese (64 Fed. Reg. 7507–7517) and the establishment of a conservation order for the reduction of mid-continent light goose populations (64 Fed. Reg. 7517–7528), shall have the force and effect of law.

"(2) Public notice.—The Secretary, acting through the Director of the Service, shall take such action as is necessary to appropriately notify the public of the force and effect of the rules referred to in paragraph (1).

"(b) Application.—Subsection (a) shall apply only during the period that—

"(1) begins on the date of the enactment of this Act [Nov. 24, 1999]; and

"(2) ends on the latest of—

"(A) the effective date of rules issued by the Service after such date of the enactment to control overabundant mid-continent light geese populations;

"(B) the date of the publication of a final environmental impact statement for such rules under section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C)); and

"(C) May 15, 2001.

"(c) Rule of Construction.—This section shall not be construed to limit the authority of the Secretary or the Service to issue rules, under another law, to regulate the taking of mid-continent light geese.

"SEC. 4. COMPREHENSIVE MANAGEMENT PLAN.

"(a) In General.—Not later than the end of the period described in section 103(b) [probably means section 3(b)], the Secretary shall prepare, and as appropriate implement, a comprehensive, long-term plan for the management of mid-continent light geese and the conservation of their habitat.

"(b) Required Elements.—The plan shall apply principles of adaptive resource management and shall include—

"(1) a description of methods for monitoring the levels of populations and the levels of harvest of mid-continent light geese, and recommendations concerning long-term harvest levels;

"(2) recommendations concerning other means for the management of mid-continent light goose populations, taking into account the reasons for the population growth specified in section 102(a)(3) [probably means section 2(a)(3)];

"(3) an assessment of, and recommendations relating to, conservation of the breeding habitat of mid-continent light geese;

"(4) an assessment of, and recommendations relating to, conservation of native species of wildlife adversely affected by the overabundance of mid-continent light geese, including the species specified in section 102(a)(5) [probably means section 2(a)(5)]; and

"(5) an identification of methods for promoting collaboration with the Government of Canada, States, and other interested persons.

"(c) Authorization of Appropriations.—There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $1,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2000 through 2002.

"SEC. 5. DEFINITIONS.

"In this Act:

"(1) Mid-continent light geese.—The term 'mid-continent light geese' means Lesser snow geese (Anser caerulescens caerulescens) and Ross' geese (Anser rossii) that primarily migrate between Canada and the States of Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

"(2) Secretary.—The term 'Secretary' means the Secretary of the Interior.

"(3) Service.—The term 'Service' means the United States Fish and Wildlife Service."

§704. Determination as to when and how migratory birds may be taken, killed, or possessed

(a) Subject to the provisions and in order to carry out the purposes of the conventions, referred to in section 703 of this title, the Secretary of the Interior is authorized and directed, from time to time, having due regard to the zones of temperature and to the distribution, abundance, economic value, breeding habits, and times and lines of migratory flight of such birds, to determine when, to what extent, if at all, and by what means, it is compatible with the terms of the conventions to allow hunting, taking, capture, killing, possession, sale, purchase, shipment, transportation, carriage, or export of any such bird, or any part, nest, or egg thereof, and to adopt suitable regulations permitting and governing the same, in accordance with such determinations, which regulations shall become effective when approved by the President.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to—

(1) take any migratory game bird by the aid of baiting, or on or over any baited area, if the person knows or reasonably should know that the area is a baited area; or

(2) place or direct the placement of bait on or adjacent to an area for the purpose of causing, inducing, or allowing any person to take or attempt to take any migratory game bird by the aid of baiting on or over the baited area.

(c) Federal Framework Closing Date for Hunting of Ducks, Mergansers, and Coots.—

(1) Regulations relating to framework closing date.—

(A) In general.—In promulgating regulations under subsection (a) relating to the Federal framework for the closing date up to which the States may select seasons for migratory bird hunting, except as provided in paragraph (2), the Secretary shall, with respect to the hunting season for ducks, mergansers, and coots—

(i) subject to subparagraph (B), adopt the recommendation of each respective flyway council (as defined in section 20.152 of title 50, Code of Federal Regulations) for the Federal framework if the Secretary determines that the recommendation is consistent with science-based and sustainable harvest management; and

(ii) allow the States to establish the closing date for the hunting season in accordance with the Federal framework.

(B) Requirement.—The framework closing date promulgated by the Secretary under subparagraph (A) shall not be later than January 31 of each year.

(2) Special hunting days for youths, veterans, and active military personnel.—

(A) In general.—Notwithstanding the Federal framework closing date under paragraph (1) and subject to subparagraphs (B) and (C), the Secretary shall allow States to select 2 days for youths and 2 days for veterans (as defined in section 101 of title 38) and members of the Armed Forces on active duty, including members of the National Guard and Reserves on active duty (other than for training), to hunt eligible ducks, geese, swans, mergansers, coots, moorhens, and gallinules, if the Secretary determines that the addition of those days is consistent with science-based and sustainable harvest management. Such days shall be treated as separate from, and in addition to, the annual Federal framework hunting season lengths.

(B) Requirements.—In selecting days under subparagraph (A), a State shall ensure that—

(i) the days selected—

(I) may only include the hunting of duck, geese, swan, merganser, coot, moorhen, and gallinule species that are eligible for hunting under the applicable annual Federal framework;

(II) are not more than 14 days before or after the Federal framework hunting season for ducks, mergansers, and coots; and

(III) are otherwise consistent with the Federal framework; and

(ii) the total number of days in a hunting season for any migratory bird species, including any days selected under subparagraph (A), is not more than 107 days.

(C) Limitation.—A State may combine the 2 days allowed for youths with the 2 days allowed for veterans and members of the Armed Forces on active duty under subparagraph (A), but in no circumstance may a State have more than a total of 4 additional days added to its regular hunting season for any purpose.

(3) Regulations.—The Secretary shall promulgate regulations in accordance with this subsection for the Federal framework for migratory bird hunting for the 2019–2020 hunting season and each hunting season thereafter.

(July 3, 1918, ch. 128, §3, 40 Stat. 755; June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §2, 49 Stat. 1556; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; Pub. L. 105–312, title I, §102, Oct. 30, 1998, 112 Stat. 2956; Pub. L. 116–9, title IV, §4301, Mar. 12, 2019, 133 Stat. 764.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2019—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 116–9 added subsec. (c).

1998—Pub. L. 105–312 designated existing provisions as subsec. (a) and added subsec. (b).

1936—Act June 20, 1936, substituted "conventions" for "convention" in two places.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1936 Amendment

Act June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §2, 49 Stat. 1556, provided in part that the amendment by section 2 is effective as of the day aforesaid (June 30, 1937). See note under section 703 of this title.

Baiting of Migratory Game Birds

Pub. L. 115–334, title XII, §12601, Dec. 20, 2018, 132 Stat. 5003, provided that:

"(a) Definitions.—In this section:

"(1) Normal agricultural operation.—The term 'normal agricultural operation' has the meaning given the term in section 20.11 of title 50, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 20, 2018]).

"(2) Post-disaster flooding.—The term 'post-disaster flooding' means the destruction of a crop through flooding in accordance with practices required by the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation for agricultural producers to obtain crop insurance under the Federal Crop Insurance Act (7 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.) on land on which a crop was not harvestable due to a natural disaster (including any hurricane, storm, tornado, flood, high water, wind-driven water, tidal wave, tsunami, earthquake, volcanic eruption, landslide, mudslide, drought, fire, snowstorm, or other catastrophe that is declared a major disaster by the President in accordance with section 401 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170)) in the crop year—

"(A) in which the natural disaster occurred; or

"(B) immediately preceding the crop year in which the natural disaster occurred.

"(3) Rice ratooning.—The term 'rice ratooning' means the agricultural practice of harvesting rice by cutting the majority of the aboveground portion of the rice plant but leaving the roots and growing shoot apices intact to allow the plant to recover and produce a second crop yield.

"(b) Regulations to Exclude Rice Ratooning and Post-disaster Flooding.—Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, shall revise part 20 of title 50, Code of Federal Regulations, to clarify that rice ratooning and post-disaster flooding, when carried out as part of a normal agricultural operation, do not constitute baiting.

"(c) Reports.—Not less frequently than once each year—

"(1) the Secretary of Agriculture shall submit to the Secretary of the Interior a report that describes any changes to normal agricultural operations across the range of crops grown by agricultural producers in each region of the United States in which the official recommendations described in section 20.11(h) of title 50, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this Act), are provided to agricultural producers; and

"(2) the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture and after seeking input from the heads of State departments of fish and wildlife or the Regional Migratory Bird Flyway Councils of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, shall publicly post a report on the impact that rice ratooning and post-disaster flooding have on the behavior of migratory game birds that are hunted in the area in which rice ratooning and post-disaster flooding, respectively, have occurred."

Report on Effects of 1998 Amendments

Pub. L. 105–312, title I, §104, Oct. 30, 1998, 112 Stat. 2956, directed that no later than 5 years after Oct. 30, 1998, the Secretary of the Interior submit to the appropriate Senate and House committees a report analyzing the effect of certain amendments made by Pub. L. 105–312, and the general practice of baiting, on migratory bird conservation and law enforcement efforts under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.).

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan, No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 701 of this title.

Delegation of Functions

For delegation to Secretary of the Interior of authority vested in President, see Ex. Ord. No. 10752, Feb. 12, 1958, 23 F.R. 973, set out as a note under section 715j of Title 15, Commerce and Trade.

Secretary of the Interior empowered to promulgate regulations under this section without approval, ratification, or other action of President, see section 2(b) of Ex. Ord. No. 10250, June 5, 1951, 16 F.R. 5385, set out as a note under section 301 of Title 3, The President.

§705. Transportation or importation of migratory birds; when unlawful

It shall be unlawful to ship, transport, or carry, by any means whatever, from one State, Territory, or district to or through another State, Territory, or district, or to or through a foreign country, any bird, or any part, nest, or egg thereof, captured, killed, taken, shipped, transported, or carried at any time contrary to the laws of the State, Territory, or district in which it was captured, killed, or taken, or from which it was shipped, transported, or carried. It shall be unlawful to import any bird, or any part, nest, or egg thereof, captured, killed, taken, shipped, transported, or carried contrary to the laws of any Province of the Dominion of Canada in which the same was captured, killed, or taken, or from which it was shipped, transported, or carried.

(July 3, 1918, ch. 128, §4, 40 Stat. 755; June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §4, 49 Stat. 1556; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; Pub. L. 91–135, §10, Dec. 5, 1969, 83 Stat. 282.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1969—Pub. L. 91–135 repealed second par., which prohibited shipment of wild game mammals or parts thereof by any person of the United States to and from Mexico, except by permit from the Secretary of the Interior.

1936—Act June 20, 1936, inserted last sentence.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1969 Amendment

Pub. L. 91–135, §11, Dec. 5, 1969, 83 Stat. 282, provided that: "The provisions of sections 1 through 10 of this Act [enacting sections 668cc–1 to 668cc–6 of this title and amending this section, sections 851, 852, 852a, and 852d of this title, and sections 43, 44, 3054, and 3112 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure] shall be effective one hundred and eighty days after the date of enactment of this Act [Dec. 5, 1969]."

Effective Date of 1936 Amendment

Act June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §4, 49 Stat. 1556, provided in part that the amendment by section 4 is effective as of the day aforesaid (June 30, 1937). See note under section 703 of this title.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 701 of this title.

§706. Arrests; search warrants

Any employee of the Department of the Interior authorized by the Secretary of the Interior to enforce the provisions of this subchapter shall have power, without warrant, to arrest any person committing a violation of this subchapter in his presence or view and to take such person immediately for examination or trial before an officer or court of competent jurisdiction; shall have power to execute any warrant or other process issued by an officer or court of competent jurisdiction for the enforcement of the provisions of this subchapter; and shall have authority, with a search warrant, to search any place. The several judges of the courts established under the laws of the United States, and United States magistrate judges may, within their respective jurisdictions, upon proper oath or affirmation showing probable cause, issue warrants in all such cases. All birds, or parts, nests, or eggs thereof, captured, killed, taken, sold or offered for sale, bartered or offered for barter, purchased, shipped, transported, carried, imported, exported, or possessed contrary to the provisions of this subchapter or of any regulation prescribed thereunder shall, when found, be seized and, upon conviction of the offender or upon judgment of a court of the United States that the same were captured, killed, taken, sold or offered for sale, bartered or offered for barter, purchased, shipped, transported, carried, imported, exported, or possessed contrary to the provisions of this subchapter or of any regulation prescribed thereunder, shall be forfeited to the United States and disposed of by the Secretary of the Interior in such manner as he deems appropriate.

(July 3, 1918, ch. 128, §5, 40 Stat. 756; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; Pub. L. 90–578, title IV, §402(b)(2), Oct. 17, 1968, 82 Stat. 1118; Pub. L. 95–616, §3(h)(1), Nov. 8, 1978, 92 Stat. 3111; Pub. L. 101–650, title III, §321, Dec. 1, 1990, 104 Stat. 5117.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1978—Pub. L. 95–616 made provisions respecting seizures and judgment of court applicable to birds, or parts, nests, or eggs sold or offered for sale, bartered or offered for barter, purchased, imported and exported and substituted "any regulation prescribed thereunder" in two places for "any regulations made pursuant thereto" and "any regulation made pursuant thereto" and provision for disposition of the birds, etc., by Secretary of the Interior in such manner as he deems appropriate for prior provision for such disposition as directed by court having jurisdiction.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

"United States magistrate judges" substituted for "United States magistrates" in text pursuant to section 321 of Pub. L. 101–650, set out as a note under section 631 of Title 28, Judiciary and Judicial Procedure. Previously, "United States magistrates" substituted in text for "United States commissioners" pursuant to Pub. L. 90–578. See chapter 43 (§631 et seq.) of Title 28.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Enforcement functions of Secretary or other official in Department of the Interior related to compliance with protection of certain birds under this subchapter with respect to pre-construction, construction, and initial operation of transportation system for Canadian and Alaskan natural gas transferred to Federal Inspector, Office of Federal Inspector for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation System, until first anniversary of date of initial operation of Alaska Natural Gas Transportation System, see Reorg. Plan No. 1 of 1979, §§102(e), 203(a), 44 F.R. 33663, 33666, 93 Stat. 1373, 1376, effective July 1, 1979, set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees. Office of Federal Inspector for the Alaska Natural Gas Transportation System abolished and functions and authority vested in Inspector transferred to Secretary of Energy by section 3012(b) of Pub. L. 102–486, set out as an Abolition of Office of Federal Inspector note under section 719e of Title 15, Commerce and Trade. Functions and authority vested in Secretary of Energy subsequently transferred to Federal Coordinator for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Projects by section 720d(f) of Title 15.

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 701 of this title.

§707. Violations and penalties; forfeitures

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, any person, association, partnership, or corporation who shall violate any provisions of said conventions or of this subchapter, or who shall violate or fail to comply with any regulation made pursuant to this subchapter shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be fined not more than $15,000 or be imprisoned not more than six months, or both.

(b) Whoever, in violation of this subchapter, shall knowingly—

(1) take by any manner whatsoever any migratory bird with intent to sell, offer to sell, barter or offer to barter such bird, or

(2) sell, offer for sale, barter or offer to barter, any migratory bird shall be guilty of a felony and shall be fined not more than $2,000 or imprisoned not more than two years, or both.

(c) Whoever violates section 704(b)(2) of this title shall be fined under title 18, imprisoned not more than 1 year, or both.

(d) All guns, traps, nets and other equipment, vessels, vehicles, and other means of transportation used by any person when engaged in pursuing, hunting, taking, trapping, ensnaring, capturing, killing, or attempting to take, capture, or kill any migratory bird in violation of this subchapter with the intent to offer for sale, or sell, or offer for barter, or barter such bird in violation of this subchapter shall be forfeited to the United States and may be seized and held pending the prosecution of any person arrested for violating this subchapter and upon conviction for such violation, such forfeiture shall be adjudicated as a penalty in addition to any other provided for violation of this subchapter. Such forfeited property shall be disposed of and accounted for by, and under the authority of, the Secretary of the Interior.

(July 3, 1918, ch. 128, §6, 40 Stat. 756; June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §2, 49 Stat. 1556; Pub. L. 86–732, Sept. 8, 1960, 74 Stat. 866; Pub. L. 99–645, title V, §501, Nov. 10, 1986, 100 Stat. 3590; Pub. L. 105–312, title I, §103, Oct. 30, 1998, 112 Stat. 2956.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1998—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 105–312, §103(1), substituted "$15,000" for "$500".

Subsecs. (c), (d). Pub. L. 105–312, §103(2), (3), added subsec. (c) and redesignated former subsec. (c) as (d).

1986—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 99–645 substituted "shall knowingly" for "shall" in introductory provisions.

1960—Pub. L. 86–732 designated existing provisions as subsec. (a), inserted "Except as otherwise provided in this section", and added subsecs. (b) and (c).

1936—Act June 20, 1936, substituted "conventions" for "convention".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1936 Amendment

Act June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §2, 49 Stat. 1556, provided in part that the amendment by section 2 is effective as of the day aforesaid (June 30, 1937). See note under section 703 of this title.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of certain enforcement functions of Secretary or other official in Department of the Interior under this subchapter to Federal Inspector, Office of Federal Inspector for the Alaska Natural Gas Transportation System, and subsequent transfer to Secretary of Energy, then to Federal Coordinator for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Projects, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 706 of this title.

§708. State or Territorial laws or regulations

Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed to prevent the several States and Territories from making or enforcing laws or regulations not inconsistent with the provisions of said conventions or of this subchapter, or from making or enforcing laws or regulations which shall give further protection to migratory birds, their nests, and eggs, if such laws or regulations do not extend the open seasons for such birds beyond the dates approved by the President in accordance with section 704 of this title.

(July 3, 1918, ch. 128, §7, 40 Stat. 756; June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §2, 49 Stat. 1556.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1936—Act June 20, 1936, substituted "conventions" for "convention".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1936 Amendment

Act June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §2, 49 Stat. 1556, provided in part that the amendment by section 2 is effective as of the day aforesaid (June 30, 1937). See note under section 703 of this title.

§709. Omitted

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section, act July 3, 1918, ch. 128, §8, 40 Stat. 756, authorized taking and use of migratory birds, nests, or eggs for scientific or propagating purposes until adoption and approval, pursuant to section 704 of this title, of regulations dealing therewith. Regulations were promulgated by Proc. July 31, 1918, 40 Stat. 1812.

§709a. Authorization of appropriations

There is hereby authorized to be appropriated, from time to time, out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, such amounts as may be necessary to carry out the provisions and to accomplish the purposes of said conventions and of this subchapter and regulations made pursuant thereto, and the Secretary of the Interior is authorized out of such moneys to employ in the city of Washington and elsewhere such persons and means as he may deem necessary for such purpose and may cooperate with local authorities in the protection of migratory birds and make the necessary investigations connected therewith.

(July 3, 1918, ch. 128, §9, as added June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §5, 49 Stat. 1556; amended 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Act June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §5, 49 Stat. 1556, provided in part that this section is effective as of the day aforesaid (June 30, 1937). See Effective Date of 1936 Amendment note set out under section 703 of this title.

Availability of Funds

Act June 20, 1936, ch. 634, §6, 49 Stat. 1557, provided: "That all moneys now or hereafter available for administration and enforcement of said Act approved July 3, 1918 [this subchapter], shall be equally available for the administration and enforcement of said Act as hereby amended."

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of certain enforcement functions of Secretary or other official in Department of the Interior under this subchapter to Federal Inspector, Office of Federal Inspector for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation System, and subsequent transfer to Secretary of Energy, then to Federal Coordinator for Alaska Natural Gas Transportation Projects, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 706 of this title.

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 701 of this title.

§710. Partial invalidity; short title

If any clause, sentence, paragraph, or part of this subchapter, which shall be known by the short title of the "Migratory Bird Treaty Act", shall, for any reason, be adjudged by any court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, such judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder thereof, but shall be confined in its operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, or part thereof directly involved in the controversy in which such judgment shall have been rendered.

(July 3, 1918, ch. 128, §§1, 10, 40 Stat. 755, 757.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

The provisions of this section relating to short title are from section 1 of act July 3, 1918, and the provisions relating to severability are from section 10 of that act.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title of 2004 Amendment

Pub. L. 108–447, div. E, title I, §143(a), Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 3071, provided that: "This section [amending section 703 of this title and enacting provisions set out as notes under section 703 of this title] may be cited as the 'Migratory Bird Treaty Reform Act of 2004'."

Short Title of 1998 Amendment

Pub. L. 105–312, title I, §101, Oct. 30, 1998, 112 Stat. 2956, provided that: "This title [amending sections 704 and 707 of this title and enacting provisions set out as a note under section 704 of this title] may be cited as the 'Migratory Bird Treaty Reform Act of 1998'."

§711. Breeding and sale for food supply

Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed to prevent the breeding of migratory game birds on farms and preserves and the sale of birds so bred under proper regulation for the purpose of increasing the food supply.

(July 3, 1918, ch. 128, §12, 40 Stat. 757.)

§712. Treaty and convention implementing regulations; seasonal taking of migratory birds for essential needs of indigenous Alaskans to preserve and maintain stocks of the birds; protection and conservation of the birds

(1) In accordance with the various migratory bird treaties and conventions with Canada, Japan, Mexico, and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, the Secretary of the Interior is authorized to issue such regulations as may be necessary to assure that the taking of migratory birds and the collection of their eggs, by the indigenous inhabitants of the State of Alaska, shall be permitted for their own nutritional and other essential needs, as determined by the Secretary of the Interior, during seasons established so as to provide for the preservation and maintenance of stocks of migratory birds.

(2) The Secretary of the Interior is authorized to issue such regulations as may be necessary to implement the provisions of the convention between the United States and Great Britain for the protection of migratory birds concluded August 16, 1916, the convention between the United States and the United Mexican States for the protection of migratory birds and game mammals concluded February 7, 1936, the convention between the United States and the Government of Japan for the protection of migratory birds in danger of extinction, and their environment concluded March 4, 1972, and the convention between the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics for the conservation of migratory birds and their environment concluded November 19, 1976.

(Pub. L. 95–616, §3(h)(2), (3), Nov. 8, 1978, 92 Stat. 3112.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Par. (1) of section 3(h) of Pub. L. 95–616 amended section 706 of this title. Pars. (2) and (3) of such section 3(h) were redesignated (1) and (2) for codification purposes.

Section was enacted as part of the Fish and Wildlife Improvement Act of 1978, and not as part of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act which comprises this subchapter.

SUBCHAPTER III—MIGRATORY BIRD CONSERVATION

§715. Short title

This subchapter shall be known by the short title of "Migratory Bird Conservation Act."

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §1, 45 Stat. 1222.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title of 1976 Amendment

Pub. L. 94–215, §1, Feb 17, 1976, 90 Stat. 189, provided: "That this Act [amending sections 668dd, 715a, 715k–3, 715k–5, 718a, 718b, and 718d of this title] may be cited as the 'Wetlands Loan Extension Act of 1976'."

§715a. Migratory Bird Conservation Commission; creation; composition; duties; approval of areas of land and water recommended for purchase or rental

A commission to be known as the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, consisting of the Secretary of the Interior, as chairman, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, the Secretary of Agriculture and two Members of the Senate, to be selected by the President of the Senate, and two Members of the House of Representatives to be selected by the Speaker, is created and authorized to consider and pass upon any area of land, water, or land and water that may be recommended by the Secretary of the Interior for purchase or rental under this subchapter, and to fix the price or prices at which such area may be purchased or rented; and no purchase or rental shall be made of any such area until it has been duly approved for purchase or rental by said commission. Any Member of the House of Representatives who is a member of the commission, if reelected to the succeeding Congress, may serve on the commission notwithstanding the expiration of a Congress. Any vacancy on the commission shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment. The ranking officer of the branch or department of a State to which is committed the administration of its game laws, or his authorized representative, and in a State having no such branch or department, the governor thereof, or his authorized representative, shall be a member ex officio of said commission for the purpose of considering and voting on all questions relating to the acquisition, under this subchapter, of areas in his State. For purposes of this subchapter, the purchase or rental of any area of land, water, or land and water includes the purchase or rental of any interest in any such area of land, water, or land and water.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §2, 45 Stat. 1222; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), (h), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; Pub. L. 90–261, Mar. 2, 1968, 82 Stat. 39; Pub. L. 94–215, §4, Feb. 17, 1976, 90 Stat. 190; Pub. L. 101–233, §13, Dec. 13, 1989, 103 Stat. 1977.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1989—Pub. L. 101–233 substituted "Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency" for "Secretary of Transportation".

1976—Pub. L. 94–215 inserted provision including in the purchase or rental of any area of land, water, or land and water the purchase or rental of any interest in any such area of land, water, or land and water.

1968—Pub. L. 90–261 substituted the Secretary of Transportation for the Secretary of Commerce in the membership of the Commission.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, transferred functions of Secretary of Agriculture relating to conservation of wildlife, game, and migratory birds to Secretary of the Interior, and provided that Secretary of the Interior should be chairman of Migratory Bird Conservation Commission and that Secretary of Agriculture should be a member thereof.

§715b. Annual report

The commission created by section 715a of this title shall, through its chairman, annually report in detail to Congress, not later than the first Monday in December, the operations of the commission during the preceding fiscal year.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §3, 45 Stat. 1223.)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Termination of Reporting Requirements

For termination, effective May 15, 2000, of provisions of law requiring submittal to Congress of any annual, semiannual, or other regular periodic report listed in House Document No. 103–7 (in which a report required under this section is listed on page 177), see section 3003 of Pub. L. 104–66, as amended, set out as a note under section 1113 of Title 31, Money and Finance.

§715c. Areas recommended for approval; character

The Secretary of the Interior may not recommend any area for purchase or rental under the terms of this subchapter unless the Secretary of the Interior—

(1) has determined that such area is necessary for the conservation of migratory birds; and

(2) has consulted with the county or other unit of local government in which such area is located and with the Governor of the State concerned or the appropriate State agency.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §4, 45 Stat. 1223; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; Pub. L. 89–669, §7(a), Oct. 15, 1966, 80 Stat. 929; Pub. L. 95–552, §2, Oct. 30, 1978, 92 Stat. 2071.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1978—Pub. L. 95–552 substituted "may not recommend any area" for "shall recommend no area", incorporated existing provision in item (1) and added item (2).

1966—Pub. L. 89–669 struck out "game" from "migratory game birds".

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 715a of this title.

§715d. Purchase or rental of approved areas or interests therein; gifts and devises; United States lands

The Secretary of the Interior may—

(1) purchase or rent such areas or interests therein as have been approved for purchase or rental by the Commission at the price or prices fixed by the Commission; and

(2) acquire, by gift or devise, any area or interests therein;

which he determines to be suitable for use as an inviolate sanctuary, or for any other management purpose, for migratory birds. The Secretary may pay, when deemed necessary by him and from moneys authorized to be appropriated for the purposes of this subchapter (A) the purchase or rental price of any such area or interest therein, and (B) the expenses incident to the location, examination, survey, and acquisition of title (including options) of any such area or interest therein. No lands acquired, held, or used by the United States for military purposes shall be subject to any provisions of this subchapter.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §5, 45 Stat. 1223; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; Pub. L. 95–616, §5(a), Nov. 8, 1978, 92 Stat. 3113.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1978—Pub. L. 95–616 incorporated existing provisions in pars. (1) and (2) and cls. (A) and (B), made provisions applicable to interests in approved areas, and inserted authority for purchase or acquisition for other management purposes.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 715a of this title.

§§715d–1, 715d–2. Repealed. Pub. L. 89–669, §8(a), Oct. 15, 1966, 80 Stat. 930

Sections, act June 15, 1935, ch. 261, title III, §§302, 303, 49 Stat. 382, provided for acceptance of land in exchange for other land or timber, etc. rights and for acceptance of land in exchange for patent to nonmineral public land. See section 668dd(b)(3) of this title.

§715d–3. Omitted

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section, act June 15, 1935, ch. 261, title V, §501, 49 Stat. 383, authorized President to allocate out of appropriation made to him by resolution of April 8, 1935, a sum for acquisition of areas for bird sanctuaries and refuges.

§715e. Examination of title; easements and reservations

The Secretary of the Interior may do all things and make all expenditures necessary to secure the safe title in the United States to the areas which may be acquired under this subchapter, but no payment shall be made for any such areas until the title thereto shall be satisfactory to the Attorney General or his designee, but the acquisition of such areas by the United States shall in no case be defeated because of rights-of-way, easements, and reservations which from their nature will in the opinion of the Secretary of the Interior in no manner interfere with the use of the areas so encumbered for the purposes of this subchapter, but such rights-of-way, easements, and reservations retained by the grantor or lessor from whom the United States receives title under this subchapter or any other Act for the acquisition by the Secretary of the Interior of areas for wildlife refuges shall be subject to rules and regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Interior for the occupation, use, operation, protection, and administration of such areas as inviolate sanctuaries for migratory birds or as refuges for wildlife; and it shall be expressed in the deed or lease that the use, occupation, and operation of such rights-of-way, easements, and reservations shall be subordinate to and subject to such rules and regulations as are set out in such deed or lease or, if deemed necessary by the Secretary of the Interior, to such rules and regulations as may be prescribed by him from time to time.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §6, 45 Stat. 1223; June 15, 1935, ch. 261, title III, §301, 49 Stat. 381; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; Pub. L. 91–393, §6, Sept. 1, 1970, 84 Stat. 835.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1970—Pub. L. 91–393 inserted "or his designee" after "Attorney General".

1935—Act June 15, 1935, inserted "under said sections or any other Act for the acquisition by the Secretary of Agriculture of areas for wildlife refuges" and "or as refuges for wildlife", and inserted clause beginning "as are set out in such deed or lease or, if deemed necessary" etc.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 715a of this title.

§715e–1. Omitted

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section, act June 15, 1935, ch. 261, title III, §304, 49 Stat. 382, applying section 715e of this title to exchanges effected under former sections 715d–1 and 715d–2, has been omitted due to the repeal of sections 715d–1 and 715d–2 by Pub. L. 89–669, §8(a), Oct. 15, 1966, 80 Stat. 930.

§715f. Consent of State to conveyance in fee

No deed or instrument of conveyance in fee shall be accepted by the Secretary of the Interior under this subchapter unless the State in which the area lies shall have consented by law to the acquisition by the United States of lands in that State.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §7, 45 Stat. 1223; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; Pub. L. 103–434, title XIII, Oct. 31, 1994, 108 Stat. 4565.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1994—Pub. L. 103–434 inserted "in fee" after "conveyance".

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 715a of this title.

§715g. Jurisdiction of State over areas acquired

The jurisdiction of the State, both civil and criminal, over persons upon areas acquired under this subchapter shall not be affected or changed by reason of their acquisition and administration by the United States as migratory-bird reservations, except so far as the punishment of offenses against the United States is concerned.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §8, 45 Stat. 1224.)

§715h. Operation of State game laws

Nothing in this subchapter is intended to interfere with the operation of the game laws of the several States applying to migratory game birds insofar as they do not permit what is forbidden by Federal law.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §9, 45 Stat. 1224.)

§715i. Administration

(a) Treaty obligations; rules and regulations

Areas of lands, waters, or interests therein acquired or reserved pursuant to this subchapter shall, unless otherwise provided by law, be administered by the Secretary of the Interior under rules and regulations prescribed by him to conserve and protect migratory birds in accordance with treaty obligations with Mexico, Canada, Japan, and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, and other species of wildlife found thereon, including species that are listed pursuant to section 1533 of this title as endangered species or threatened species, and to restore or develop adequate wildlife habitat.

(b) Management and public and private agency agreements authorization

In administering such areas, the Secretary is authorized to manage timber, range, and agricultural crops; to manage other species of animals, including but not limited to fenced range animals, with the objectives of perpetuating, distributing, and utilizing the resources; and to enter into agreements with public and private agencies.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §10, 45 Stat. 1224; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; Pub. L. 89–669, §7(b), Oct. 15, 1966, 80 Stat. 929; Pub. L. 93–205, §13(b), Dec. 28, 1973, 87 Stat. 902; Pub. L. 95–616, §5(b), Nov. 8, 1978, 92 Stat. 3114.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

1978—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 95–616 provided for treaty obligations with Japan and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.

1973—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 93–205 substituted "listed pursuant to section 1533 of this title as endangered species or threatened species," for "threatened with extinction,".

1966—Subsecs. (a), (b). Pub. L. 89–669 added subsecs. (a) and (b). Former paragraph prohibited acts on acquired areas and is now covered by section 668dd(c) and (d)(1) of this title.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1973 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 93–205 effective Dec. 28, 1973, see section 16 of Pub. L. 93–205, set out as a note under section 1531 of this title.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 715a of this title.

§715j. "Migratory birds" defined

For the purposes of this subchapter and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.), migratory birds are those defined as such by the treaty between the United States and Great Britain for the protection of migratory birds concluded August 16, 1916 (39 Stat. 1702), the treaty between the United States and the United Mexican States for the protection of migratory birds and game mammals concluded February 7, 1936 (50 Stat. 1311), the Convention between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of Japan for the Protection of Migratory Birds and Birds in Danger of Extinction, and their Environment concluded March 4, 1972, and the Convention between the United States and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics for the Conservation of Migratory Birds and their Environment concluded November 19, 1976.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §11, 45 Stat. 1224; Pub. L. 89–669, §7(c), Oct. 15, 1966, 80 Stat. 930; Pub. L. 95–616, §5(c), Nov. 8, 1978, 92 Stat. 3114.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act, referred to in text, is act July 3, 1918, ch. 128, 40 Stat. 755, which is classified generally to subchapter II (§703 et seq.) of this chapter. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 710 of this title and Tables.

Amendments

1978—Pub. L. 95–616 defined migratory birds for purposes of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and to include those defined in the Convention of Mar. 4, 1972, concluded with Government of Japan and the Convention of Nov. 19, 1976, concluded with Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.

1966—Pub. L. 89–669 inserted "(39 Stat. 1702)" and defined migratory birds to include those defined in the Treaty of Feb. 7, 1936 (50 Stat. 1311) with the United Mexican States.

§715k. Authorization of appropriations for purposes of subchapter; disposal; reservation protectors

For the acquisition, including the location, examination, and survey, of suitable areas of land, water, or land and water, for use as migratory bird reservations, and necessary expenses incident thereto, and for the administration, maintenance, and development of such areas and other preserves, reservations, or breeding grounds frequented by migratory birds and under the administration of the Secretary of the Interior, including the construction of dams, dikes, ditches, flumes, spillways, buildings, and other necessary improvements, and for the elimination of the loss of migratory birds from alkali poisoning, oil pollution of waters, or other causes, for cooperation with local authorities in wildlife conservation, for investigations and publications relating to North American birds, for personal services, printing, engraving, and issuance of circulars, posters, and other necessary matter and for the enforcement of the provisions of this subchapter, there are hereby authorized to be appropriated, in addition to all other amounts authorized by law to be appropriated, $200,000 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1940, and for each fiscal year thereafter. No part of any appropriation authorized by this section shall be used for payment of the salary, compensation, or expenses of any United States protector, except reservation protectors for the administration, maintenance and protection of such reservations and the birds thereon: Provided, That reservation protectors appointed under the provisions of this subchapter, shall be selected, when practicable, from qualified citizens of the State in which they are to be employed. The Secretary of the Interior is authorized and directed to make such expenditures and to employ such means, including personal services in the District of Columbia and elsewhere, as may be necessary to carry out the foregoing objects.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §12, 45 Stat. 1224; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; Pub. L. 89–669, §7(a), Oct. 15, 1966, 80 Stat. 929.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Provisions of this section which related to appropriations for the fiscal year ending June 30, 1930, to June 30, 1939, were omitted.

Amendments

1966—Pub. L. 89–669 substituted "grounds frequented by migratory birds" for "grounds frequented by migratory game birds", and "United States protector" for "United States game protector".

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 715a of this title.

§715k–1. Expenditures for personal services

In the execution of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior is authorized to make such expenditures for personal services in the District of Columbia and elsewhere as he shall deem necessary.

(June 15, 1935, ch. 261, title VII, §701, 49 Stat. 384; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

This Act, referred to in text, probably means the act of June 15, 1935, ch. 261, 49 Stat. 378, which is classified in part to certain sections of this subchapter and of subchapter IV of this chapter. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Tables.

Codification

Act June 15, 1935, in addition to the provisions set out in the text, made an appropriation for the acquisition of lands necessary to provide for the restoration, rehabilitation and protection of migratory waterfowl and other wildlife and for the erection and construction of necessary buildings, dikes, dams, canals, and other works.

Section was not enacted as part of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act which comprises this subchapter.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 715a of this title.

§715k–2. Omitted

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section, acts June 29, 1937, ch. 404, title I, 50 Stat. 421; June 16, 1938, ch. 464, title I, 52 Stat. 736; June 30, 1939, ch. 253, title I, 53 Stat. 965, made an earlier specific appropriation available for maintenance and operation of motor-propelled passenger-carrying vehicles.

§715k–3. Authorization of appropriations for the preservation of wetlands and other waterfowl habitat

In order to promote the conservation of migratory waterfowl and to offset or prevent the serious loss of important wetlands and other waterfowl habitat essential to the preservation of such waterfowl, there is authorized to be appropriated for the period beginning on July 1, 1961, and ending when all amounts authorized to be appropriated have been expended, not to exceed $200,000,000.

(Pub. L. 87–383, §1, Oct. 4, 1961, 75 Stat. 813; Pub. L. 90–205, §1(a), Dec. 15, 1967, 81 Stat. 612; Pub. L. 94–215, §2(a), Feb. 17, 1976, 90 Stat. 189; Pub. L. 98–200, §1, Dec. 2, 1983, 97 Stat. 1378; Pub. L. 98–548, title I, §101, Oct. 26, 1984, 98 Stat. 2774; Pub. L. 99–645, title I, §101(a), Nov. 10, 1986, 100 Stat. 3584; Pub. L. 100–653, title III, §301, Nov. 14, 1988, 102 Stat. 3827.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section was not enacted as part of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act which comprises this subchapter.

Amendments

1988—Pub. L. 100–653 substituted "when all amounts authorized to be appropriated have been expended" for "at the close of September 30, 1988".

1986—Pub. L. 99–645 substituted "September 30, 1988" for "September 30, 1986".

1984—Pub. L. 98–548 substituted "September 30, 1986" for "September 30, 1984".

1983—Pub. L. 98–200 substituted "September 30, 1984" for "September 30, 1983".

1976—Pub. L. 94–215 substituted "period beginning on July 1, 1961, and ending at the close of September 30, 1983, not to exceed $200,000,000" for "fifteen-year period beginning with fiscal year 1962, not to exceed $105,000,000".

1967—Pub. L. 90–205 substituted "fifteen-year period" for "seven-year period".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title

Pub. L. 87–383, which enacted this section and sections 715k–4 and 715k–5 of this title, is popularly known as the "Wetlands Loan Act".

§715k–4. Accounting and use of appropriations

Funds appropriated each fiscal year pursuant to sections 715k–3 to 715k–5 of this title shall be accounted for, added to, and used for purposes of the migratory bird conservation fund ¹ established pursuant to section 718d of this title.

(Pub. L. 87–383, §2, Oct. 4, 1961, 75 Stat. 813.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section was not enacted as part of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act which comprises this subchapter.

¹ So in original. Probably should be capitalized.

§715k–5. Acquisition of lands

No land shall be acquired with moneys from the migratory bird conservation fund ¹ unless the acquisition thereof has been approved by the Governor of the State or appropriate State agency.

(Pub. L. 87–383, §3, Oct. 4, 1961, 75 Stat. 813; Pub. L. 90–205, §1(b), Dec. 15, 1967, 81 Stat. 612; Pub. L. 94–215, §2(b), Feb. 17, 1976, 90 Stat. 189; Pub. L. 98–200, §2, Dec. 2, 1983, 97 Stat. 1378; Pub. L. 98–548, title I, §102, Oct. 26, 1984, 98 Stat. 2774; Pub. L. 99–645, title I, §101(b), Nov. 10, 1986, 100 Stat. 3584.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section was not enacted as part of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act which comprises this subchapter.

Amendments

1986—Pub. L. 99–645 struck out first three sentences which read as follows: "Funds appropriated pursuant to sections 715k–3 to 715k–5 of this title shall be treated as an advance, without interest, to the migratory bird conservation fund. Such appropriated funds, beginning on October 1, 1986, shall be repaid to the Treasury out of the migratory bird conservation fund, such repayment shall be made in annual amounts comprising 75 per centum of the moneys accruing annually to such fund. In the event the full amount authorized by section 715k–3 of this title is appropriated before October 1, 1986, the repayment of such funds pursuant to this section shall begin with the next full fiscal year."

1984—Pub. L. 98–548 substituted "October 1, 1986" for "October 1, 1984" in two places.

1983—Pub. L. 98–200 substituted "October 1, 1984" for "October 1, 1983" in two places.

1976—Pub. L. 94–215 substituted "on October 1, 1983" for "with fiscal year 1977", "before October 1, 1983" for "prior to the end of the aforesaid fifteen-year period" and "year. No" for "year: Provided further, That no".

1967—Pub. L. 90–205 made minor structural changes and substituted "1977" for "1969" and "fifteen-year period" for "seven-year period".

¹ So in original. Probably should be capitalized.

§§715l, 715m. Repealed. Pub. L. 89–669, §7(d), Oct. 15, 1966, 80 Stat. 930

Sections, act Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §§13, 14, 45 Stat. 1225, related to: execution of provisions, powers and duties of United States judges, commissioners and employees of Department of the Interior; and penalty for violation of provisions. See section 668dd(f) and (e) of this title, respectively.

§715n. "Take" defined

For the purposes of this subchapter the word "take" shall be construed to mean pursue, hunt, shoot, capture, collect, kill, or attempt to pursue, hunt, shoot, capture, collect, or kill, unless the context otherwise requires.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §15, 45 Stat. 1225.)

§715o. National forest and power sites; use for migratory bird reservations

Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed as authorizing or empowering the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission herein created, the Secretary of the Interior, or any other board, commission, or officer, to declare, withdraw, or determine, except heretofore designated, any part of any national forest or power site, a migratory bird reservation under any of the provisions of this subchapter, except by and with the consent of the legislature of the State wherein such forest or power site is located.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §16, 45 Stat. 1225; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Herein created, referred to in text, means created by section 715a of this title.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 715a of this title.

§715p. Cooperation of State in enforcement of provisions

When any State shall, by suitable legislation, make provision adequately to enforce the provisions of this subchapter and all regulations promulgated thereunder, the Secretary of the Interior may so certify, and then and thereafter said State may cooperate with the Secretary of the Interior in the enforcement of this subchapter and the regulations thereunder.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §17, 45 Stat. 1225; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433.)

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 715a of this title.

§715q. Expenses of commission; authorization of appropriations

A sum sufficient to pay the necessary expenses of the commission and its members, not to exceed an annual expenditure of $7,500, is authorized to be appropriated out of any money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated. Said appropriation shall be paid out on the audit and order of the chairman of said commission, which audit and order shall be conclusive and binding upon the Government Accountability Office as to the correctness of the accounts of said commission.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §18, 45 Stat. 1225; Pub. L. 87–812, Oct. 15, 1962, 76 Stat. 922; Pub. L. 108–271, §8(b), July 7, 2004, 118 Stat. 814.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2004—Pub. L. 108–271 substituted "Government Accountability Office" for "General Accounting Office".

1962—Pub. L. 87–812 increased annual expenditures from not more than $5,000 to not more than $7,500 and corrected a misspelling of "commission".

§715r. Partial invalidity; validity of remainder

If any provision of this subchapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid the validity of the remainder of this subchapter and of the application of such provision to other persons and circumstances shall not be affected thereby.

(Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, §19, 45 Stat. 1226.)

§715s. Participation of local governments in revenue from areas administered by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service

(a) Separate fund in the United States Treasury; availability of funds until expended; "National Wildlife Refuge System" defined

Beginning with the next full fiscal year and for each fiscal year thereafter, all revenues received by the Secretary of the Interior from the sale or other disposition of animals, salmonoid carcassas,¹ timber, hay, grass, or other products of the soil, minerals, shells, sand, or gravel, from other privileges, or from leases for public accommodations or facilities incidental to but not in conflict with the basic purposes for which those areas of the National Wildlife Refuge System were established, during each fiscal year in connection with the operation and management of those areas of the National Wildlife Refuge System, National Fish Hatcheries, or other areas, that are solely or primarily administered by him, through the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, shall be covered into the United States Treasury and be reserved in a separate fund for disposition as hereafter prescribed. Amounts in the fund shall remain available until expended, and may be expended by the Secretary without further appropriation in the manner hereafter prescribed. The National Wildlife Refuge System (hereafter referred to as the "System") includes those lands and waters administered by the Secretary as wildlife refuges, lands acquired or reserved for the protection and conservation of fish and wildlife that are listed pursuant to section 1533 of this title as endangered species or threatened species, wildlife ranges, game ranges, wildlife management areas, and waterfowl production areas established under any law, proclamation, Executive, or public land order.

(b) Deduction of expenses

The Secretary may pay from the fund any necessary expenses incurred by him in connection with the revenue-producing and revenue-sharing measures.

(c) Payment to counties

(1) The Secretary shall pay out the fund, for each fiscal year beginning with the fiscal year ending September 30, 1979, to each county in which is situated any fee area whichever of the following amounts is greater:

(A) An amount equal to the product of 75 cents multiplied by the total acreage of that portion of the fee area which is located within such county.

(B) An amount equal to three-fourths of 1 per centum of the fair market value, as determined by the Secretary, of that portion of the fee area (excluding any improvements thereto made after the date of Federal acquisition) which is located within such county.

(C) An amount equal to 25 per centum of the net receipts collected by the Secretary in connection with the operation and management of such fee area during such fiscal year; but if a fee area is located in two or more counties, the amount each such county is entitled to shall be the amount which bears to such 25 per centum the same ratio as that portion of the fee area acreage which is within such county bears to the total acreage of such fee area.

(2) At the end of each fiscal year the Secretary shall pay out of the fund for such fiscal year to each county in which any reserve area is situated, an amount equal to 25 per centum of the net receipts collected by the Secretary in connection with the operation and management of such area during such fiscal year: Provided, That when any such area is situated in more than one county the distributive share to each county from the aforesaid receipts shall be proportional to its acreage of such reserve area.

(3) For purposes of this section, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands shall each be treated as a county.

(4)(A) For purposes of determining the fair market value of fee areas under paragraph (1)(B), the Secretary shall—

(i) appraise before September 30, 1979, all fee areas for which payments under this section were not authorized for fiscal years occurring before October 1, 1977; and

(ii) appraise all other fee areas, within five years after October 17, 1978, in the order in which such areas were first established by the Service.

After initial appraisal under clause (i) or (ii), each fee area shall thereafter be reappraised by the Secretary at least once during each five-year period occurring after the date of the initial appraisal. Until any fee area referred to in clause (ii) is initially appraised under this subparagraph, the fair market value of such area shall be deemed to be that adjusted cost of the area which was used to determine payments under this subsection for fiscal year 1977; and in no case may the amount of any payment to any local government under paragraph (1)(B) with respect to any fee area be less than the amount paid under paragraph (2)(A) of this subsection (as in effect on September 30, 1977) with respect to such area.

(B) The Secretary shall make the determinations required under this subsection in such manner as the Secretary considers to be equitable and in the public interest. All such determinations shall be final and conclusive.

(5)(A) Each county which receives payments under paragraphs (1) and (2) with respect to any fee area or reserve area shall distribute, under guidelines established by the Secretary, such payments on a proportional basis to those units of local government (including, but not limited to, school districts and the county itself in appropriate cases) which have incurred the loss or reduction of real property tax revenues by reason of the existence of such area. In any case in which a unit of local government other than the county acts as the collecting and distributing agency for real property taxes, the payments under paragraphs (1) and (2) shall be made to such other unit which shall distribute the payments in accordance with the guidelines.

(B) The Secretary may prescribe regulations under which payments under this paragraph may be made to units of local government in cases in which subparagraph (A) will not effect the purposes of this paragraph.

(C) Payments received by units of local government under this subsection may be used by such units for any governmental purpose.

(d) Authorization of appropriations equal to difference between amount of net receipts and aggregate amount of required payments

If the net receipts in the fund which are attributable to revenue collections for any fiscal year do not equal the aggregate amount of payments required to be made for such fiscal year under subsection (c) to counties, there are authorized to be appropriated to the fund an amount equal to the difference between the total amount of net receipts and such aggregate amount of payments.

(e) Transfer and use of excess of net receipts over aggregate amount of required payments

If the net receipts in the fund which are attributable to revenue collections for any fiscal year exceed the aggregate amount of payments required to be made for such fiscal year under subsection (c) to counties, the amount of such excess shall be transferred to the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund for use in the acquisition of suitable areas for migratory bird refuges under the provisions of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act (16 U.S.C. 715–715r).

(f) Terms, conditions, and regulations for execution of revenue producing activities; disposal of animals

The Secretary shall carry out any revenue producing activity referred to in subsection (a)(1), (2), and (3) within any fee area or reserve area subject to such terms, conditions, or regulations, including sales in the open markets, as the Secretary determines to be in the best interest of the United States. The Secretary may, in accordance with such regulations as the Secretary may prescribe, dispose of animals which are surplus to any such area by exchange of the same or other kinds, gift or loan to public institutions for exhibition or propagation purposes, and for the advancement of knowledge and the dissemination of information relating to the conservation of wildlife.

(g) Definitions

As used in this section—

(1) The term "Secretary" means the Secretary of the Interior.

(2) The term "fee area" means any area which was acquired in fee by the United States and is administered, either solely or primarily, by the Secretary through the Service.

(3) The term "reserve area" means any area of land withdrawn from the public domain and administered, either solely or primarily, by the Secretary through the Service.

(4) The term "Service" means the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.

(5) The term "county" means any county, parish, or organized or unorganized borough.

(June 15, 1935, ch. 261, title IV, §401, 49 Stat. 383; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; 1940 Reorg. Plan No. III, §3, eff. June 30, 1940, 5 F.R. 2108, 54 Stat. 1232; Oct. 31, 1951, ch. 654, §2(13), 65 Stat. 707; Pub. L. 88–523, Aug. 30, 1964, 78 Stat. 701; Pub. L. 89–669, §8(b), Oct. 15, 1966, 80 Stat. 930; Pub. L. 93–205, §13(b), Dec. 28, 1973, 87 Stat. 902; Pub. L. 93–509, §4, Dec. 3, 1974, 88 Stat. 1603; Pub. L. 95–469, §1(a), Oct. 17, 1978, 92 Stat. 1319; Pub. L. 97–258, §5(b), Sept. 13, 1982, 96 Stat. 1068.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

Beginning with the next full fiscal year and for each fiscal year thereafter, referred to in subsec. (a), probably means the next full fiscal year following Aug. 30, 1964, the date of enactment of Pub. L. 88–523, which amended this section.

The Migratory Bird Conservation Act, referred to in subsec. (e), is act Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, 45 Stat. 1222, which is classified generally to this subchapter. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 715 of this title and Tables.

Codification

The reference in subsec. (f) to "revenue producing activity referred to in subsection (a)(1), (2), and (3) of this section", enacted as an amendment to subsec. (f) by section 1(a)(3) of Pub. L. 95–469, is a reference to the proposed amendment as set out on pg. 1 of House Report No. 95–1197 of the 95th Congress, 2d Session, May 15, 1978, and reading in part:

"(a) All revenues received during each fiscal year by the Secretary in connection with the operation and management of fee areas and reserve areas from—

"(1) the sale or disposition of animals, salmonoid carcasses, products of the soil (including, but not limited to, timber, hay, and grass), minerals (including, but not limited to, crude petroleum and natural gas), shells, sand, and gravel;

"(2) leases for public accommodations or facilities incidental to, but not in conflict with, the major purposes of such areas; and

"(3) other privileges;

shall be covered" which was not enacted by the Congress but subsec. (a) was amended as provided in the 1978 Amendment note below.

Section was not enacted as part of the "Migratory Bird Conservation Act" which comprises this subchapter.

Amendments

1982—Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 97–258 struck out subsec. (h) which had provided for administration of payments to local governments for entitlement lands, reserve areas as entitlement lands, and payments received by any unit of local government to be deemed payments under specified provisions. See sections 6901 and 6903 of Title 31, Money and Finance.

1978—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 95–469, §1(a)(1), authorized the separate fund in the United States Treasury to include revenues from sale or other disposition of salmonoid carcasses and extended the operation and management provision to areas of National Fish Hatcheries and other areas administered by the Secretary.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 95–469, §1(a)(2), substituted "revenue-producing and revenue-sharing measures" for "revenue-producing measures set forth in subsection (a) of this section".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 95–469, §1(a)(3), in revising subsec. (c), substituted pars. (1) to (5) for prior text consisting of: introductory text authorizing expenditures solely for benefit of public schools and roads, now covered in par. (5)(C); par. (1) of first sentence, now included in par. (2); par. (2) of first sentence, now covered in pars. (1)(B), (C) and (4) in part; and second sentence now incorporated in par. (4)(B).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 95–469, §1(a)(3), substituted provision for authorization of appropriations equal to difference between amount of net receipts and aggregate amount of required payments for prior provision limiting amount payable to the counties to amount of net receipts in the fund for any fiscal year and a proportionate reduction of payments when net receipts are insufficient for aggregate amount of payments for any fiscal year.

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 95–469, §1(a)(3), in revising subsec. (e), substituted provision authorizing use of surplus funds for acquisition of suitable areas for migratory bird refuges for prior provision making remaining funds available for such land acquisition and eliminated provision prohibiting funds available for the Management of the National Wildlife Refuge System or for enforcement of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act from being diminished by the amendments made by Pub. L. 93–509 to this subsection unless by specific congressional enactment.

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 95–469, §1(a)(3), substituted "The Secretary shall carry out any revenue producing activity referred to in subsection (a)(1), (2), and (3) within any fee area or reserve area subject to such terms, conditions, or regulations, including sales in the open markets, as the Secretary determines to be in the best interest of the United States." for "The disposition or sale of surplus animals, minerals, and other products, the grant of privileges, and the carrying out of any other activities that result in the collection of revenues within any areas of the System may be accomplished upon such terms, conditions, or regulations, including sale in the open markets, as the Secretary shall determine to be in the best interest of the United States." and reenacted substance of second sentence, setting out provision for regulations at beginning rather than end of sentence.

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 95–469, §1(a)(3), substituted definitions of certain terms for prior provision for supersedure by Pub. L. 88–523 of repealed paragraph of "Management of National Wildlife Refuges" in the General Appropriation Act, 1951, approved Sept. 6, 1950 (64 Stat. 595, 693 to 694).

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 95–469, §1(a)(4), added subsec. (h).

1974—Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 93–509 substituted provisions that moneys remaining in the fund after all payments under this section are made for any fiscal year shall be transferred to the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund and shall be available for land acquisition under the Migratory Bird Conservation Act with exception that the funds available for the management of the National Wildlife Refuge System or for enforcement of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act shall not be diminished for provisions that moneys remaining in the fund after all payments are made for any fiscal year may be used by the Secretary thereafter for management of the System, including but not limited to the construction, improvement, repair, and alteration of buildings, roads, and other facilities, and for enforcement of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

1973—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 93–205 substituted "listed pursuant to section 1533 of this title as endangered species or threatened species," for "threatened with extinction,".

1966—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 89–669 defined the National Wildlife Refuge System to include lands acquired or reserved for the protection and conservation of fish and wildlife that are threatened with extinction.

1964—Pub. L. 88–523 substituted provisions designated as subsecs. (a) to (g) for former provisions constituting one paragraph consisting of a first clause with three provisos and a second clause; required in subsec. (a) all receipts from the National Wildlife Refuge System to be covered into a separate fund in the United States Treasury, made the fund available until expended, provided for expenditures without further appropriation, and defined the National Wildlife Refuge System; incorporated the third proviso of the first clause and the second clause in subsec. (b) and the parenthetical matter of subsec. (c); incorporated in the reserved public lands provision of subsec. (c)(1) the formula of the first clause for returning twenty-five per centum of the net revenues from the System to the counties in which the producing refuges are located for the benefit of the public schools and roads therein; incorporated the first proviso of the first clause in subsec. (c)(1) proviso; substituted subsec. (c)(2) providing an option plan for payment of either 25 per centum of the net receipts from lands acquired in fee by the United States to the counties in which such acquired lands are located or three-fourths of 1 per centum of the adjusted cost of the acquired lands, whichever is higher, for the formula of the first clause for returning 25 per centum of the revenues; inserted provisions of subsecs. (d), (e), and (g); and incorporated the second proviso of the first clause in subsec. (f).

1951—Act Oct. 31, 1951, in second proviso, inserted reference to application regulations of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949, as amended, and, in third proviso, inserted reference to section 485 of Title 40.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1978 Amendment; Fiscal Year of Availability of Appropriation Authorization

Pub. L. 95–469, §2, Oct. 17, 1978, 92 Stat. 1321, provided that: "The amendments made by this Act [amending this section and sections 1603, 1605 and 1606 of former Title 31, Money and Finance], shall apply with respect to payments made to counties under title IV of the Act of June 15, 1935 [this section], for the fiscal year ending September 30, 1979, and for fiscal years thereafter; except that the amendments made to such title IV [this section] which amend section 401(a) and (g), add paragraph (4) to section 401(c) [subsecs. (a) and (g), and (c)(4) of this section], and amend the title heading [of this section] shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 17, 1978]. No authorization for appropriation shall be available under this Act before the fiscal year ending September 30, 1980."

Effective Date of 1973 Amendment

Amendment by Pub. L. 93–205 effective Dec. 28, 1973, see section 16 of Pub. L. 93–205, set out as an Effective Date note under section 1531 of this title.

Refuge Revenue Sharing

Pub. L. 105–83, title I, §132, Nov. 14, 1997, 111 Stat. 1570, provided that: "Notwithstanding any other provision of law, hereafter the United States Fish and Wildlife Service may disburse to local entities impact funding pursuant to Refuge Revenue Sharing that is associated with Federal real property transferred to the United States Geological Survey from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service."

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of functions of other officers, employees, and agencies of Department of the Interior, with certain exceptions, to Secretary of the Interior, with power to delegate, see Reorg. Plan No. 3 of 1950, §§1, 2, eff. May 24, 1950, 15 F.R. 3174, 64 Stat. 1262, set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

Reorg. Plan No. III of 1940, set out in the Appendix to Title 5, consolidated Bureau of Fisheries and Bureau of Biological Survey, with their respective functions, into one agency in Department of the Interior to be known as the Fish and Wildlife Service.

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 715a of this title.

¹ So in original. Probably should be "carcasses,".

SUBCHAPTER IV—HUNTING AND CONSERVATION STAMP TAX

§718. Repealed. Pub. L. 109–266, §10(h), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 677

Section, act Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §9, 48 Stat. 452, defined subchapter terms.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title of 2014 Amendment

Pub. L. 113–264, §1, Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 2939, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 718a, 718b, and 718d of this title] may be cited as the 'Federal Duck Stamp Act of 2014'."

Short Title of 2006 Amendment

Pub. L. 109–266, §1, Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 670, provided that: "This Act [enacting sections 718g to 718j of this title, amending sections 718a to 718f of this title, repealing this section and former sections 718g, 718h, and 718j of this title, and enacting provisions set out as notes under this section] may be cited as the 'Electronic Duck Stamp Act of 2005'."

Short Title of 1998 Amendment

Pub. L. 105–269, §1, Oct. 19, 1998, 112 Stat. 2381, provided that: "This Act [amending section 718d of this title] may be cited as the 'Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Promotion Act'."

Short Title

Act Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §11, as added by Pub. L. 109–266, §10(h), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 679, provided that: "This Act [enacting this subchapter] may be cited as the 'Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Act'."

Electronic Duck Stamp Pilot Program

Pub. L. 109–266, §§2–9, Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 670–673, provided that:

"SEC. 2. FINDINGS.

"Congress finds that—

"(1) on March 16, 1934, Congress passed and President Roosevelt signed the Act of March 16, 1934 (16 U.S.C. 718a [718] et seq.) (popularly known as the 'Duck Stamp Act'), which requires all migratory waterfowl hunters 16 years of age or older to buy a Federal migratory bird hunting and conservation stamp annually;

"(2) the Federal Duck Stamp program has become one of the most popular and successful conservation programs ever initiated;

"(3) because of that program, the United States again is teeming with migratory waterfowl and other wildlife that benefit from wetland habitats;

"(4) as of the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 3, 2006], 1,700,000 migratory bird hunting and conservation stamps are sold each year;

"(5) as of 2003, those stamps have generated more than $600,000,000 in revenue that has been used to preserve more than 5,000,000 acres of migratory waterfowl habitat in the United States; and

"(6) many of the more than 540 national wildlife refuges have been paid for wholly or partially with that revenue.

"SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.

"In this Act [see Short Title of 2006 Amendment note above]:

"(1) Actual stamp.—The term 'actual stamp' means a Federal migratory-bird hunting and conservation stamp required under the Act of March 16, 1934 (16 U.S.C. 718a [718] et seq.) (popularly known as the 'Duck Stamp Act'), that is printed on paper and sold through a means in use immediately before the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 3, 2006].

"(2) Automated licensing system.—

"(A) In general.—The term 'automated licensing system' means an electronic, computerized licensing system used by a State fish and wildlife agency to issue hunting, fishing, and other associated licenses and products.

"(B) Inclusion.—The term 'automated licensing system' includes a point-of-sale, Internet, or telephonic system used for a purpose described in subparagraph (A).

"(3) Electronic stamp.—The term 'electronic stamp' means an electronic version of an actual stamp that—

"(A) is a unique identifier for the individual to whom it is issued;

"(B) can be printed on paper;

"(C) is issued through a State automated licensing system that is authorized, under State law and by the Secretary under this Act, to issue electronic stamps;

"(D) is compatible with the hunting licensing system of the State that issues the electronic stamp; and

"(E) is described in the State application approved by the Secretary under section 4(b).

"(4) Secretary.—The term 'Secretary' means the Secretary of the Interior.

"SEC. 4. ELECTRONIC DUCK STAMP PILOT PROGRAM.

"(a) Requirement To Conduct Program.—The Secretary shall conduct a 3-year pilot program under which up to 15 States authorized by the Secretary may issue electronic stamps.

"(b) Commencement and Duration of Program.—The Secretary shall—

"(1) use all means necessary to expeditiously implement this section by the date that is 1 year after the beginning of the first full Federal migratory waterfowl hunting season after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 3, 2006]; and

"(2) carry out the pilot program for 3 Federal migratory waterfowl hunting seasons.

"(c) Consultation.—The Secretary shall carry out the program in consultation with State management agencies.

"SEC. 5. STATE APPLICATION.

"(a) Approval of Application Required.—A State may not participate in the pilot program under this Act unless the Secretary has received and approved an application submitted by the State in accordance with this section.

"(b) Contents of Application.—The Secretary may not approve a State application unless the application contains—

"(1) a description of the format of the electronic stamp that the State will issue under the pilot program, including identifying features of the licensee that will be specified on the stamp;

"(2) a description of any fee the State will charge for issuance of an electronic stamp;

"(3) a description of the process the State will use to account for and transfer to the Secretary the amounts collected by the State that are required to be transferred to the Secretary under the program;

"(4) the manner by which the State will transmit electronic stamp customer data to the Secretary;

"(5) the manner by which actual stamps will be delivered;

"(6) the policies and procedures under which the State will issue duplicate electronic stamps; and

"(7) such other policies, procedures, and information as may be reasonably required by the Secretary.

"(c) Publication of Deadlines, Eligibility Requirements, and Selection Criteria.—Not later than 30 days before the date on which the Secretary begins accepting applications for participation in the pilot program, the Secretary shall publish—

"(1) deadlines for submission of applications to participate in the program;

"(2) eligibility requirements for participation in the program; and

"(3) criteria for selecting States to participate in the program.

"SEC. 6. STATE OBLIGATIONS AND AUTHORITIES.

"(a) Delivery of Actual Stamp.—The Secretary shall require that each individual to whom a State sells an electronic stamp under the pilot program shall receive an actual stamp—

"(1) by not later than the date on which the electronic stamp expires under section 7(c); and

"(2) in a manner agreed upon by the State and Secretary.

"(b) Collection and Transfer of Electronic Stamp Revenue and Customer Information.—

"(1) Requirement to transmit.—The Secretary shall require each State participating in the pilot program to collect and submit to the Secretary in accordance with this section—

"(A) the first name, last name, and complete mailing address of each individual that purchases an electronic stamp from the State;

"(B) the face value amount of each electronic stamp sold by the State; and

"(C) the amount of the Federal portion of any fee required by the agreement for each stamp sold.

"(2) Time of transmittal.—The Secretary shall require the submission under paragraph (1) to be made with respect to sales of electronic stamps by a State occurring in a month—

"(A) by not later than the 15th day of the subsequent month; or

"(B) as otherwise specified in the application of the State approved by the Secretary under section 5.

"(3) Additional fees not affected.—This section shall not apply to the State portion of any fee collected by a State under subsection (c).

"(c) Electronic Stamp Issuance Fee.—A State participating in the pilot program may charge a reasonable fee to cover costs incurred by the State and the Department of the Interior in issuing electronic stamps under the program, including costs of delivery of actual stamps.

"(d) Duplicate Electronic Stamps.—A State participating in the pilot program may issue a duplicate electronic stamp to replace an electronic stamp issued by the State that is lost or damaged.

"(e) Limitation on Authority To Require Purchase of State License.—A State may not require that an individual purchase a State hunting license as a condition of issuing an electronic stamp under the pilot program.

"SEC. 7. ELECTRONIC STAMP REQUIREMENTS; RECOGNITION OF ELECTRONIC STAMP.

"(a) Stamp Requirements.—The Secretary shall require an electronic stamp issued by a State under the pilot program—

"(1) to have the same format as any other license, validation, or privilege the State issues under the automated licensing system of the State; and

"(2) to specify identifying features of the licensee that are adequate to enable Federal, State, and other law enforcement officers to identify the holder.

"(b) Recognition of Electronic Stamp.—Any electronic stamp issued by a State under the pilot program shall, during the effective period of the electronic stamp—

"(1) bestow upon the licensee the same privileges as are bestowed by an actual stamp;

"(2) be recognized nationally as a valid Federal migratory bird hunting and conservation stamp; and

"(3) authorize the licensee to hunt migratory waterfowl in any other State, in accordance with the laws of the other State governing that hunting.

"(c) Duration.—An electronic stamp issued by a State under the pilot program shall be valid for a period agreed to by the State and the Secretary, which shall not exceed 45 days.

"SEC. 8. TERMINATION OF STATE PARTICIPATION.

"Participation by a State in the pilot program may be terminated—

"(1) by the Secretary, if the Secretary—

"(A) finds that the State has violated any of the terms of the application of the State approved by the Secretary under section 5; and

"(B) provides to the State written notice of the termination by not later than the date that is 30 days before the date of termination; or

"(2) by the State, by providing written notice to the Secretary by not later than the date that is 30 days before the termination date.

"SEC. 9. EVALUATION.

"(a) Evaluation.—The Secretary, in consultation with State fish and wildlife management agencies and appropriate stakeholders with expertise specific to the duck stamp program, shall evaluate the pilot program and determine whether the pilot program has provided a cost-effective and convenient means for issuing migratory-bird hunting and conservation stamps, including whether the program has—

"(1) increased the availability of those stamps;

"(2) assisted States in meeting the customer service objectives of the States with respect to those stamps;

"(3) maintained actual stamps as an effective and viable conservation tool; and

"(4) maintained adequate retail availability of the actual stamp.

"(b) Report.—The Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the findings of the Secretary under subsection (a)."

§718a. Prohibition on taking

(a) Prohibition

(1) In general

Except as provided in paragraph (2), no individual who has attained the age of 16 years shall take any migratory waterfowl unless, at the time of the taking, the individual carries on the person of the individual a valid Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, as an electronic stamp (as defined in section 718o of this title) or validated by the signature of the individual written in ink across the face of the actual stamp (as defined in that section) prior to the time of the taking by the individual of the waterfowl.

(2) Exception

No stamp described in paragraph (1) shall be required for the taking of migratory waterfowl—

(A) by Federal or State agencies;

(B) for propagation;

(C) by the resident owner, tenant, or sharecropper of the property, or officially designated agencies of the Department of the Interior, for the killing, under such restrictions as the Secretary may by regulation prescribe, of such waterfowl when found damaging crops or other property; or

(D) by a rural Alaska resident for subsistence uses (as that term is defined in section 3113 of this title).

(b) Display of stamp

Any individual to whom a stamp has been sold under this subchapter shall, upon request, display the stamp for inspection to—

(1) any officer or employee of the Department of the Interior who is authorized to enforce this subchapter; or

(2) any officer of any State or political subdivision of a State authorized to enforce State game laws.

(c) Other licenses

Nothing in this section requires any individual to affix the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp to any other license prior to taking 1 or more migratory waterfowl.

(Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §1, 48 Stat. 451; June 15, 1935, ch. 261, title I, §1, 49 Stat. 378; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; July 30, 1956, ch. 782, §1, 70 Stat. 722; Pub. L. 94–215, §3(a), Feb. 17, 1976, 90 Stat. 189; Pub. L. 109–266, §10(a), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 674; Pub. L. 113–264, §4, Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 2940; Pub. L. 118–25, §2(d), Dec. 19, 2023, 137 Stat. 130.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2023—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 118–25 inserted "as an electronic stamp (as defined in section 718o of this title) or" after "Conservation Stamp," and substituted "face of the actual stamp (as defined in that section)" for "face of the stamp".

2014—Subsec. (a)(2)(D). Pub. L. 113–264 added subpar. (D).

2006—Pub. L. 109–266 amended section generally. Prior to amendment, section related to hunting and conservation stamp for taking migratory waterfowl.

1976—Pub. L. 94–215 substituted "hunting and conservation stamp" for "hunting stamp" in first sentence.

1956—Act July 30, 1956, substituted "no person who has attained the age of sixteen years", for "no person over sixteen years of age".

1935—Act June 15, 1935, substituted "validated by his signature written by himself in ink across the face of the stamp prior to his taking such birds" for "issued to him in the manner hereinafter provided," and struck out provisions which authorized the Secretary of Agriculture to adopt and promulgate regulations for the protection of private property in the injury of crops.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, transferred functions of Secretary of Agriculture relating to conservation of wildlife, game, and migratory birds to Secretary of the Interior.

§718b. Sales; fund disposition; unsold stamps

(a) Sales

(1) In general

The stamps required under section 718a of this title shall be sold by the Postal Service and may be sold by the Department of the Interior, pursuant to regulations promulgated jointly by the Postal Service and the Secretary, at—

(A) any post office; and

(B) such other establishments, facilities, or locations as the Postal Service or the Secretary (or a designee) may direct or authorize.

(2) Proceeds

The funds received from the sale of stamps under this subchapter by the Department of the Interior shall be deposited in the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund in accordance with section 718d of this title.

(3) Minimum and maximum values

Except as provided in subsection (b), the Postal Service shall collect the full face value of each stamp sold under this section for the applicable hunting year.

(4) Validity

No stamp sold under this subchapter shall be valid under any circumstances to authorize the taking of migratory waterfowl except—

(A) in compliance with Federal and State laws (including regulations);

(B) on the condition that the individual so taking the waterfowl wrote the signature of the individual in ink across the face of the stamp prior to the taking; and

(C) during the hunting year for which the stamp was issued.

(5) Unused stamps

(A) Definition of retail dealer

In this paragraph, the term "retail dealer" means—

(i) any individual or entity that is regularly engaged in the business of retailing hunting or fishing equipment; and

(ii) any individual or entity duly authorized to act as an agent of a State or political subdivision of a State for the sale of State or county hunting or fishing licenses.

(B) Redemption of unused stamps

The Department of the Interior, pursuant to regulations promulgated by the Secretary, shall provide for the redemption, on or before the 30th day of June of each year, of unused stamps issued for the year under this subchapter that—

(i) were sold on consignment to any person authorized by the Secretary to sell stamps on consignment (including retail dealers for resale to customers); and

(ii) have not been resold by any such person.

(6) Prohibition on certain stamp sales

The Postal Service shall not—

(A) sell on consignment any stamps issued under this subchapter to any individual, business, or organization; or

(B) redeem stamps issued under this subchapter that are sold on consignment by the Secretary (or any agent of the Secretary).

(b) Cost of stamps

The Postal Service shall collect $10.00 for each stamp sold under the provisions of this section for hunting years 1987 and 1988, $12.50 for hunting years 1989 and 1990, $15.00 for hunting years 1991 through 2013, and $25 for each hunting year thereafter, if the Secretary determines, at any time before February 1 of the calendar year in which such hunting year begins, that all sums in the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund available for obligation and attributable to—

(1) amounts appropriated pursuant to this subchapter for the fiscal year ending in the immediately preceding calendar year; and

(2) the sale of stamps under this section during such fiscal year

have been obligated for expenditure.

(c) Reduction in price of stamp

The Secretary may reduce the price of each stamp sold under the provisions of this section for a hunting year if the Secretary determines that the increase in the price of the stamp after hunting year 2013 resulted in a reduction in revenues deposited into the fund.

(Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §2, 48 Stat. 451; June 15, 1935, ch. 261, title I, §2, 49 Stat. 379; Aug. 12, 1949, ch. 421, §1, 63 Stat. 599; July 30, 1956, ch. 782, §§2, 3(c), formerly §3(b), 70 Stat. 722, renumbered Pub. L. 109–266, §10(i)(1), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 679; Pub. L. 85–585, §1, Aug. 1, 1958, 72 Stat. 486; Pub. L. 92–214, §§1, 2, Dec. 22, 1971, 85 Stat. 777; Pub. L. 94–215, §3(b), (c), Feb. 17, 1976, 90 Stat. 189; Pub. L. 94–273, §34, Apr. 21, 1976, 90 Stat. 380; Pub. L. 95–552, §1, Oct. 30, 1978, 92 Stat. 2071; Pub. L. 95–616, §7(a), Nov. 8, 1978, 92 Stat. 3114; Pub. L. 99–625, §3, Nov. 7, 1986, 100 Stat. 3502; Pub. L. 99–645, title II, §202, Nov. 10, 1986, 100 Stat. 3586; Pub. L. 109–266, §10(b), (c), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 674, 675; Pub. L. 113–264, §2(1), (2), Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 2939.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2014—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 113–264, §2(1), substituted "1990, $15.00 for hunting years 1991 through 2013, and $25 for each hunting year thereafter" for "1990, and $15.00 for each hunting year thereafter".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 113–264, §2(2), added subsec. (c).

2006—Pub. L. 109–266, §10(b), inserted section catchline.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(b), added subsec. (a) and struck out former subsec. (a) which related to issuance and sale of stamps, fund disposition, and unsold stamps.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(c)(4), which directed amendment of par. (2) by striking "For purposes" and all that follows through "of any such year.", was executed by striking "For purposes of this section, the term 'hunting year' means the 12-month period beginning on July 1 of any such year." at the end of the concluding provisions following par. (2), to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Pub. L. 109–266, §10(c)(1)–(3), inserted heading and substituted "Secretary" for "Secretary of the Interior" and "Migratory Bird Conservation Fund" for "migratory bird conservation fund" in introductory provisions.

1986—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 99–645, §202(1), (2), in introductory provisions, substituted "$10.00 for each stamp sold under the provisions of this section for hunting years 1987 and 1988, $12.50 for hunting years 1989 and 1990, and $15.00 for each hunting year thereafter, if" for "$7.50 for each stamp sold under the provisions of this section for any hunting year if".

Pub. L. 99–625 and Pub. L. 99–645, §202(3), amended subsec. (b) identically, inserting "available for obligation" before "attributable to".

1978—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 95–616 substituted "June" for "September" in sixth sentence.

Pub. L. 95–552, §1(1), (2), designated existing provisions as subsec. (a), inserted in third sentence introductory text "Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section," and "for any hunting year" before "there shall be collected".

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 95–552, §1(3), added subsec. (b).

1976—Pub. L. 94–273 substituted "the year" for "the fiscal year" and "each year" for "each fiscal year".

Pub. L. 94–215 authorized sale of stamps by the Department of the Interior, substituted provision for prescription of regulations jointly by the Postal Service and the Secretary of the Interior for prior provision for such prescription by the Postal Service and provision for sale of stamps at any establishment, facility, or location as the Postal Service and the Secretary of the Interior shall direct and authorize for prior provision for sale of stamps at such post offices other than first- and second-class post offices as the Postal Service shall direct and inserted provision respecting deposit of funds from sale of stamps by the Department of the Interior in the migratory bird conservation fund; and substituted "September" for "June" in relation to redemption of blocks of stamps, designated existing provisions as cls. (A) and (B), and substituted "consignment to any person, including, but not limited to, "retail dealers" for "consignment to retail dealers" in cl. (A) and "by any such person" for "by such dealers" in cl. (B), respectively.

1971—Pub. L. 92–214 substituted "Postal Service" for "Post Office Department" and "Postmaster General" and inserted provisions authorizing the collection of up to $5 for each stamp sold to be determined by the Secretary of the Interior after taking into consideration, among other matters, the increased cost of lands needed for the conservation of migratory birds.

1958—Pub. L. 85–585 increased cost of stamp from $2 to $3.

1956—Act July 30, 1956, §2, struck out in existing next to last sentence requirement that stamps remaining unsold by the Post Office Department subsequent to becoming void after the 30th day of June next succeeding issuance be destroyed, substituted provisions in existing last sentence relating to redemption of blocks of unused stamps sold on consignment to retail dealers for resale to their customers, for provisions prohibiting the redemption by the Department in cash or kind of stamps sold under this Act, and inserted sentence defining "retail dealers". For further amendment of next to last sentence of this section, see section 3(c) of act July 30, 1956, set out below.

Act July 30, 1956, §3(c), formerly §3(b), as renumbered by Pub. L. 109–266, §10(i)(1), substituted provisions in fourth sentence authorizing use as migratory-bird stamps only during fiscal year for which issued, for provisions requiring stamps to expire and be void after the 30th day of June next succeeding issuance. Amendment of fourth sentence by section 3(c) further amends amendments made to next to last sentence by section 2 of act July 30, 1956, as set out above.

1949—Act Aug. 12, 1949, increased cost of stamp from $1 to $2.

1935—Act June 15, 1935, amended section generally.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1958 Amendment

Pub. L. 85–585, §4, Aug. 1, 1958, 72 Stat. 487, provided that: "The amendment made by the first section of this Act [amending this section] shall become effective on July 1, 1959. The amendment made by section 2 of this Act [amending section 718d of this title] making available the net proceeds of all moneys received in the migratory bird conservation fund for the location, ascertainment, and acquisition of Waterfowl Production Areas and suitable areas for migratory bird refuges shall become effective on July 1, 1960. The remaining amendments made by this Act [amending section 718d of this title] shall become effective on the date of the enactment of this Act [Aug. 1, 1958]. Any unobligated balance remaining in the migratory bird conservation fund on June 30, 1960, shall thereafter be available for expenditure only for the purposes specified in the Migratory Bird Hunting Stamp Act [now Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Act] of March 16, 1934 [this subchapter], as amended by this Act."

Spending of Stamp Money

Act Aug. 12, 1949, ch. 421, §1, 63 Stat. 599, provided in part: "That the moneys derived from the sale of such stamps shall be spent only upon specific appropriation by the Congress."

§718b–1. Disposition of unsold stamps

(a) Disposition of unsold stamps

A Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp shall be transferred to the Postal Service or the Secretary of the Interior (or a designee) for sale to a collector if the stamp—

(1) has not been sold by the end of the hunting year (as that term is defined in section 718j of this title) during which the stamp is issued; and

(2) as determined by the Postal Service or the Secretary of the Interior—

(A) is appropriate to supply a market for sale to collectors; and

(B) is in suitable condition for sale to a collector.

(b) Surplus stock

The Postal Service or the Secretary of the Interior may destroy any surplus stock of Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps at such time and in such manner as the Postal Service or the Secretary of the Interior determines to be appropriate.

(July 30, 1956, ch. 782, §3(a), (b), formerly §3(a), 70 Stat. 722; Pub. L. 92–214, §3, Dec. 22, 1971, 85 Stat. 777; renumbered §3(a), (b) and amended Pub. L. 109–266, §10(i)(2), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 679.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Section was not enacted as part of act Mar. 16, 1934, which comprises this subchapter.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 3(b) of act July 30, 1956, ch. 782, 70 Stat. 722, amended section 718b of this title prior to being redesignated 3(c) by section 10(i)(1) of Pub. L. 109–266.

Amendments

2006—Pub. L. 109–266 inserted section catchline and substituted subsecs. (a) and (b) for former text which read: "On or after July 30, 1956, such quantity of migratory-bird hunting stamps, not sold at the end of the fiscal year for which issued, as determined by the Postal Service to be (1) required to supply the market for sale to collectors, and (2) in suitable condition for such sale to collectors, shall be turned over to the Philatelic Agency and therein placed on sale. Any surplus stock of such migratory-bird hunting stamps may be destroyed in such manner as the Postal Service shall direct."

1971—Pub. L. 92–214 substituted "Postal Service" for "Postmaster General".

§718c. Authorization and exemption

Nothing in this subchapter shall be construed to authorize any person to take any migratory waterfowl otherwise than in accordance with regulations adopted and approved pursuant to any treaty or convention heretofore or hereafter entered into between the United States and any other country for the protection of migratory birds, nor to exempt any person from complying with the game laws of the several States.

(Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §3, 48 Stat. 451; Pub. L. 95–616, §7(b), Nov. 8, 1978, 92 Stat. 3114; Pub. L. 109–266, §10(d), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 675.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2006—Pub. L. 109–266 inserted section catchline.

1978—Pub. L. 95–616 inserted "or convention" after "treaty".

§718d. Expenditure of funds

(a) In general

All funds received for stamps sold under this subchapter shall be—

(1) accounted for by the Postal Service or the Secretary, as appropriate;

(2) paid into the Treasury of the United States; and

(3) reserved and set aside as a special fund, to be known as the "Migratory Bird Conservation Fund" (referred to in this section as the "fund"), to be administered by the Secretary, in which there shall be a subaccount to which the Secretary of the Treasury shall transfer all amounts in excess of $15 that are received from the sale of each stamp sold for each hunting year after hunting year 2013.

(b) Use of funds

All funds received into the fund are appropriated for the following purposes, to remain available until expended:

(1) Advance allotments

Except as provided in paragraph (4), so much as may be necessary shall be used by the Secretary for engraving, printing, issuing, selling, and accounting for Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps and moneys received from the sale thereof, in addition to expenses for personnel services in the District of Columbia and elsewhere, and such other expenses as may be necessary in executing the duties and functions required of the Postal Service.

(2) Areas for refuges

Except as provided in paragraphs (3) and (4) and subsection (c), the remainder shall be available for the location, ascertainment, and acquisition of suitable areas for migratory bird refuges under the provisions of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act (16 U.S.C. 715 et seq.) and for the administrative costs incurred in the acquisition of such areas.

(3) Conditions on use of funds

The Secretary may use funds made available under paragraph (2) for the purposes of that paragraph, and such other funds as may be appropriated for the purposes of that paragraph or this paragraph, to acquire, or defray the expense incident to the acquisition by gift, devise, lease, purchase, or exchange of, small wetland and pothole areas, interests therein, and rights-of-way to provide access thereto. Such small areas, to be designated as "Waterfowl Production Areas", may be acquired without regard to the limitations and requirements of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act (16 U.S.C. 715 et seq.), but all of the provisions of such Act which govern the administration and protection of lands acquired thereunder, except the inviolate sanctuary provisions of such Act, shall be applicable to areas acquired pursuant to this paragraph.

(4) Conservation easements

Amounts in the subaccount referred to in subsection (a)(3) shall be used by the Secretary solely to acquire easements in real property in the United States for conservation of migratory birds.

(c) Promotion of stamp sales

The Secretary may use funds from the sale of Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps, not to exceed $1,000,000 in each of fiscal years 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, and 2003, for the promotion of additional sales of those stamps, in accordance with a Migratory Bird Conservation Commission approved annual marketing plan. Such promotion shall include the preparation of reports, brochures, or other appropriate materials to be made available to the public that describe the benefits to wildlife derived from stamp sales.

(d) Annual report

The Secretary shall include in each annual report of the Commission under section 3 of the Migratory Bird Conservation Act (16 U.S.C. 715b)—

(1) a description of activities conducted under subsection (c) in the year covered by the report;

(2) an annual assessment of the status of wetlands conservation projects for migratory bird conservation purposes, including a clear and accurate accounting of—

(A) all expenditures by Federal and State agencies under this section; and

(B) all expenditures made for fee-simple acquisition of Federal lands in the United States, including the amount paid and acreage of each parcel acquired in each acquisition;

(3) an analysis of the refuge lands opened, and refuge lands closed, for hunting and fishing in the year covered by the report, including—

(A) identification of the specific areas in each refuge and the reasons for the closure or opening; and

(B) a detailed description of each closure including detailed justification for such closure;

(4) the total number of acres of refuge land open for hunting and fishing, and the total number of acres of refuge land closed for hunting and fishing, in the year covered by the report; and

(5) a separate report on the hunting and fishing status of those lands added to the system in the year covered by the report.

(Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §4, 48 Stat. 451; June 15, 1935, ch. 261, title I, §§3, 4, 49 Stat. 379, 380; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433; Aug. 12, 1949, ch. 421, §2, 63 Stat. 600; Oct. 20, 1951, ch. 520, 65 Stat. 451; Pub. L. 85–585, §§2, 3, Aug. 1, 1958, 72 Stat. 486, 487; Pub. L. 89–669, §6, Oct. 15, 1966, 80 Stat. 929; Pub. L. 92–214, §2, Dec. 22, 1971, 85 Stat. 777; Pub. L. 94–215, §3(d), Feb. 17, 1976, 90 Stat. 190; Pub. L. 105–269, §2, Oct. 19, 1998, 112 Stat. 2381; Pub. L. 109–266, §10(e), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 676; Pub. L. 113–264, §§2(3), 3, Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 2939, 2940.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Migratory Bird Conservation Act, referred to in subsec. (b)(2), (3), is act Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, 45 Stat. 1222, which is classified generally to subchapter III (§715 et seq.) of chapter 7 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 715 of this title and Tables.

Amendments

2014—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 113–264, §2(3)(A), inserted before period at end ", in which there shall be a subaccount to which the Secretary of the Treasury shall transfer all amounts in excess of $15 that are received from the sale of each stamp sold for each hunting year after hunting year 2013".

Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 113–264, §2(3)(B), substituted "Except as provided in paragraph (4), so much" for "So much".

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 113–264, §2(3)(C), substituted "paragraphs (3) and (4)" for "paragraph (3)".

Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 113–264, §2(3)(D), added par. (4).

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 113–264, §3(1), struck out par. (1) designation and heading and par. (2). Prior to amendment, text of par. (2) read as follows: "The Secretary shall include in each annual report of the Commission under section 715b of this title a description of activities conducted under this subsection in the year covered by the report."

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 113–264, §3(2), added subsec. (d).

2006—Pub. L. 109–266, §10(e)(1), (2), inserted section catchline, substituted subsec. (a) for introductory provisions which read "All moneys received for such stamps shall be accounted for by the Postal Service or the Department of the Interior, whichever is appropriate, and paid into the Treasury of the United States, and shall be reserved and set aside as a special fund to be known as the migratory bird conservation fund, to be administered by the Secretary of the Interior. All moneys received into such fund are appropriated for the following objects and shall be available therefor until expended:", inserted subsec. (b) designation, heading, and introductory provisions, redesignated former subsecs. (a) to (c) as pars. (1) to (3), respectively, of subsec. (b), and realigned margins.

Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(e)(3), inserted heading and substituted "So much as may be necessary shall be used by the Secretary for engraving" for "So much as may be necessary shall be used by the Secretary of the Interior to make advance allotments to the Postal Service at such times and in such amounts as may be mutually agreed upon by the Secretary of the Interior and the Postal Service for direct expenditure by the Postal Service for engraving", "Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps" for "migratory bird hunting stamps", "personnel" for "personal", and "Postal Service" for "postal service".

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(e)(4)(B), inserted "(16 U.S.C. 715 et seq.)" after "Migratory Bird Conservation Act".

Pub. L. 109–266, §10(e)(4)(A), which directed amendment of par. (2) by substituting heading "Areas for refuges" and text "Except as provided in paragraph (3) and subsection (c)" for "Except as provided in subsections (c) and (d) of this section", was executed by making the substitution for "Except as authorized in subsections (c) and (d) of this section" to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(e)(5), inserted heading, inserted "(16 U.S.C. 715 et seq.)" after "Migratory Bird Conservation Act", and substituted "The Secretary may use funds made available under paragraph (2) for the purposes of that paragraph, and such other funds as may be appropriated for the purposes of that paragraph or this paragraph," for "The Secretary of the Interior is authorized to utilize funds made available under subsection (b) of this section for the purposes of such subsection, and such other funds as may be appropriated for the purposes of such subsection, or of this subsection," and "pursuant to this paragraph" for "pursuant to this subsection".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(e)(6), redesignated subsec. (d) as (c). Former subsec. (c) redesignated (b)(3).

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(e)(7)(A), inserted heading and substituted "The Secretary may use" for "The Secretary of the Interior may utilize" and "Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps" for "migratory bird hunting and conservation stamps".

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(e)(7)(B), inserted heading and substituted "The Secretary" for "The Secretary of the Interior".

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(e)(6), redesignated subsec. (d) as (c).

1998—Subsecs. (b), (d). Pub. L. 105–269 substituted "subsections (c) and (d)" for "subsection (c)" in subsec. (b) and added subsec. (d).

1976—Pub. L. 94–215 inserted "or the Department of the Interior, whichever is appropriate," after "Postal Service" in first sentence.

1971—Pub. L. 92–214 substituted "Postal Service" for "Post Office Department" in introductory provisions and "Postal Service" for "Post Office Department" and "Postmaster General" in subsec. (a).

1966—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 89–669 struck out provisos relating to wildlife management areas and rule making for such areas which are now covered by section 668bb(d) (1) of this title.

1958—Subsecs. (a), (b). Pub. L. 85–585 earmarked proceeds from sale of stamps, less expenses of Post Office Department in connection with fish and wildlife matters, for the acquisition of migratory bird refuges, and permitted hunting of resident game birds in designated wildlife management areas.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 85–585 added subsec. (c).

1951—Subsec. (a). Act Oct. 20, 1951, substituted "85 per centum" for "90 per centum".

Subsec. (b). Act Oct. 20, 1951, inserted "in enforcing" after "The remainder shall be available for expenses".

1949—Subsec. (a). Act Aug. 12, 1949, inserted proviso.

1935—Act June 15, 1935, amended section generally.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1958 Amendment

For effective date of amendment by Pub. L. 85–585, see section 4 of Pub. L. 85–585, set out as a note under section 718b of this title.

Executive Documents

Transfer of Functions

Transfer of functions of Secretary of Agriculture to Secretary of the Interior by Reorg. Plan No. II of 1939, see Transfer of Functions note set out under section 718a of this title.

§718e. Loans and transfers, alteration, and reproduction of stamps

(a) In general

No person to whom has been sold a Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, validated as provided in section 718a of this title, shall loan or transfer such stamp to any person during the period of its validity; nor shall any person other than the person validating such stamp use it for any purpose during such period.

(b) Alteration

Except as provided in clauses (i) and (ii) of section 504(l)(D) ¹ of title 18, no person shall alter, mutilate, imitate, or counterfeit any stamp authorized by this subchapter, or imitate or counterfeit any die, plate, or engraving therefor, or make, print, or knowingly use, sell, or have in his possession any such counterfeit, die, plate, or engraving.

(c) Reproduction

Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (b), or the prohibition in section 474 of title 18, or other provisions of law, the Secretary may authorize, with the concurrence of the Secretary of the Treasury,

(1) the color reproduction, or

(2) the black and white reproduction,

of Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps authorized by sections 718 to 718b, 718c, 718d, and 718f to 718h of this title, which otherwise satisfies the requirements of clauses (ii) and (iii) of section 504(1) of title 18. Any such reproduction shall be subject to those terms and conditions deemed necessary by the Secretary by regulation or otherwise and any proceeds received by the Federal Government as a result of such reproduction shall be paid, after deducting expenses for marketing, into the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund established under section 718d of this title.

(Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §5, 48 Stat. 452; June 15, 1935, ch. 261, title I, §5, 49 Stat. 380; Pub. L. 98–369, div. A, title X, §1077(a), (b)(3), July 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 1054, 1055; Pub. L. 100–653, title III, §302, Nov. 14, 1988, 102 Stat. 3827; Pub. L. 109–266, §10(f), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 677.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2006—Pub. L. 109–266, §10(f)(1), inserted section catchline.

Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(f)(1), inserted heading and substituted "Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp" for "migratory-bird hunting stamp" in text.

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(f)(2), inserted heading and substituted "Except as provided in clauses (i) and (ii) of section 504(l)(D) of title 18, no person shall alter" for "Except as provided in clauses (i) and (ii) of section 504(1)(D) of title 18, no person shall alter" in text.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 109–266, §10(f)(3)(C)(ii), which directed substitution of "shall be paid, after deducting expenses for marketing, into the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund" for "shall be paid into the migratory bird conservation fund" in concluding provisions, was executed by making the substitution for "shall be paid, after deducting expenses for marketing, into the migratory bird conservation fund" to reflect the probable intent of Congress.

Pub. L. 109–266, §10(f)(3)(A), (B), (C)(i), inserted heading, substituted "Secretary may" for "Secretary of the Interior may" in introductory provisions, and substituted "Secretary" for "Secretary of the Interior" and "Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamps" for "migratory bird hunting stamps" in concluding provisions.

1988—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 100–653 inserted ", after deducting expenses for marketing," after "paid".

1984—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 98–369, §1077(b)(3), substituted "Except as provided in clauses (i) and (ii) of section 504(1)(D) of title 18, no person" for "No person".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 98–369, §1077(a), added subsec. (c).

1935—Act June 15, 1935, amended section generally.

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date of 1984 Amendment

Pub. L. 98–369, div. A, title X, §1077(c), July 18, 1984, 98 Stat. 1055, provided that: "The amendments made by this section [amending this section and section 504 of Title 18, Crimes and Criminal Procedure] shall take effect on the date of the enactment of this Act [July 18, 1984]."

¹ So in original. Probably should be "504(1)(D)".

§718f. Enforcement

For the efficient execution of this subchapter, the judges of the several courts, established under the laws of the United States, United States magistrate judges, and persons appointed by the Secretary to enforce the provisions of this subchapter, shall have, with respect thereto, like powers and duties as are conferred upon said judges, magistrate judges, and employees of the Department of the Interior by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.), or any other Act to carry into effect any treaty for the protection of migratory birds with respect to that Act. Any bird or part thereof taken or possessed contrary to this subchapter shall, when seized, be disposed of by the Secretary in accordance with law.

(Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §6, 48 Stat. 452; Pub. L. 90–578, title IV, §402(b)(2), Oct. 17, 1968, 82 Stat. 1118; Pub. L. 95–616, §3(i), Nov. 8, 1978, 92 Stat. 3112; Pub. L. 101–650, title III, §321, Dec. 1, 1990, 104 Stat. 5117; Pub. L. 109–266, §10(g), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 677.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and "that Act", referred to in text, is act July 3, 1918, ch. 128, 40 Stat. 755, which is classified generally to subchapter II (§703 et seq.) of chapter 7 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 710 of this title and Tables.

Amendments

2006—Pub. L. 109–266 inserted section catchline, substituted "Secretary to" for "Secretary of Agriculture to" and "Department of the Interior" for "Department of Agriculture", and inserted "(16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.)" after "Migratory Bird Treaty Act".

1978—Pub. L. 95–616 substituted in last sentence "contrary to this subchapter shall, when seized, be disposed of by the Secretary in accordance with law" for "contrary to such Acts shall, when seized, be disposed of as provided by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, or Acts aforesaid".

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Change of Name

"United States magistrate judges" and "magistrate judges" substituted for "United States magistrates" and "magistrates", respectively, in text pursuant to section 321 of Pub. L. 101–650, set out as a note under section 631 of Title 28, Judiciary and Judicial Procedure. Previously, "magistrates" substituted in text for "commissioners" pursuant to Pub. L. 90–578. See chapter 43 (§631 et seq.) of Title 28.

§718g. Violations

Any person that violates or fails to comply with any provision of this subchapter (including a regulation promulgated under this subchapter) shall be subject to the penalties described in section 707 of this title.

(Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §7, as added Pub. L. 109–266, §10(h), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 678.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 718g, act Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §7, 48 Stat. 452, related to penalties prior to repeal by Pub. L. 109–266, §10(h), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 677.

§718h. Cooperation

The Secretary is authorized to cooperate with the States and the territories and possessions of the United States in the enforcement of this subchapter.

(Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §8, as added Pub. L. 109–266, §10(h), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 678.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 718h, act Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §8, 48 Stat. 452; 1939 Reorg. Plan No. II, §4(f), eff. July 1, 1939, 4 F.R. 2731, 53 Stat. 1433, related to cooperation with States and Territories prior to repeal by Pub. L. 109–266, §10(h), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 677.

§718i. Use of contest fees

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, funds received by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service in the form of fees for entering any Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp contest shall be credited—

(1) first, to the appropriation account from which expenditures for the administration of the contest are made; and

(2) second, to the extent any funds remain, to the Migratory Bird Conservation Fund.

(Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §9, as added Pub. L. 109–266, §10(h), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 678.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 9 of act Mar. 16, 1934, was classified to section 718 of this title prior to repeal by Pub. L. 109–266, §10(h), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 677.

A prior section 718i, act June 28, 1941, ch. 259, §1, 55 Stat. 356, related to disposal of surplus stamps and restricted use of stamps to the fiscal year for which issued prior to repeal by act July 30, 1956, ch. 782, §3(d), formerly §3(c), 70 Stat. 722, renumbered Pub. L. 109–266, §10(i)(1), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 679.

§718j. Definitions

(a) In general

In this subchapter, the terms defined in the Migratory Bird Conservation Act (16 U.S.C. 715 et seq.) and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.) have the meanings given those terms in those Acts.

(b) Other definitions

In this subchapter:

(1) Hunting year

The term "hunting year" means the 1-year period beginning on July 1 of each year.

(2) Migratory waterfowl

The term "migratory waterfowl" means the species enumerated in paragraph (a) of subdivision 1 of article I of the Convention between the United States and Great Britain for the Protection of Migratory Birds, signed at Washington on August 16, 1916 (USTS 628) (16 U.S.C. 703 et seq.).

(3) Secretary

The term "Secretary" means the Secretary of the Interior.

(4) State

The term "State" means—

(A) a State;

(B) the District of Columbia;

(C) the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico;

(D) Guam;

(E) American Samoa;

(F) the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands;

(G) the Federated States of Micronesia;

(H) the Republic of the Marshall Islands;

(I) the Republic of Palau; and

(J) the United States Virgin Islands.

(5) Take

The term "take" means—

(A) to pursue, hunt, shoot, capture, collect, or kill; or

(B) to attempt to pursue, hunt, shoot, capture, collect, or kill.

(Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §10, as added Pub. L. 109–266, §10(h), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 678.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Migratory Bird Conservation Act, referred to in subsec. (a), is act Feb. 18, 1929, ch. 257, 45 Stat. 1222, which is classified generally to subchapter III (§715 et seq.) of chapter 7 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 715 of this title and Tables.

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act, referred to in subsec. (a), is act July 3, 1918, ch. 128, 40 Stat. 755, which is classified generally to subchapter II (§703 et seq.) of chapter 7 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see section 710 of this title and Tables.

Prior Provisions

A prior section 718j, Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, §10, as added Pub. L. 97–307, Oct. 14, 1982, 96 Stat. 1450, related to crediting of funds received as fees for entering migratory-bird hunting and conservation stamp contest prior to repeal by Pub. L. 109–266, §10(h), Aug. 3, 2006, 120 Stat. 677.

§718k. Use of fees collected for Federal migratory bird permits

On and after October 21, 1998, all fees collected for Federal migratory bird permits shall be available to the Secretary, without further appropriation, to be used for the expenses of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in administering such Federal migratory bird permits, and shall remain available until expended.

(Pub. L. 105–277, div. A, §101(e) [title I], Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–231, 2681-236.)

SUBCHAPTER IV–A—PERMANENT ELECTRONIC DUCK STAMP

§718o. Definitions

In this subchapter:

(1) Actual stamp

The term "actual stamp" means a Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp required under the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Act (16 U.S.C. 718a et seq.) that is printed on paper and sold through the means established by the authority of the Secretary immediately before December 18, 2014.

(2) Automated licensing system

(A) In general

The term "automated licensing system" means an electronic, computerized licensing system used by a State fish and wildlife agency to issue hunting, fishing, and other associated licenses and products.

(B) Inclusion

The term "automated licensing system" includes a point-of-sale, Internet, telephonic system, or other electronic applications used for a purpose described in subparagraph (A).

(3) Electronic stamp

The term "electronic stamp" means an electronic version of an actual stamp that—

(A) is a unique identifier for the individual to whom it is issued;

(B) can be printed on paper or produced through an electronic application with the same indicators as the State endorsement provides;

(C) is issued through a State automated licensing system that is authorized, under State law and by the Secretary under this subchapter, to issue electronic stamps;

(D) is compatible with the hunting licensing system of the State that issues the electronic stamp;

(E) is described in the State application approved by the Secretary under section 718q(b) of this title; and

(F) may contain an image of the actual stamp.

(4) Secretary

The term "Secretary" means the Secretary of the Interior.

(Pub. L. 113–239, §2, Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 2847; Pub. L. 118–25, §2(b), Dec. 19, 2023, 137 Stat. 129.)

Editorial Notes

References in Text

The Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Act, referred to in par. (1), is act Mar. 16, 1934, ch. 71, 48 Stat. 451, which is classified generally to subchapter IV (§718 et seq.) of this chapter. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 718 of this title and Tables.

Amendments

2023—Par. (1). Pub. L. 118–25, §2(b)(1), substituted "Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp required under the Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp Act (16 U.S.C. 718a et seq.) that is printed" for "Federal migratory-bird hunting and conservation stamp required under the Act of March 16, 1934 (16 U.S.C. 718a et seq.) (popularly known as the 'Duck Stamp Act'), that is printed".

Par. (3)(F). Pub. L. 118–25, §2(b)(2), added subpar. (F).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title of 2023 Amendment

Pub. L. 118–25, §1, Dec. 19, 2023, 137 Stat. 129, provided that: "This Act [amending this section and sections 718a, 718r, and 718s of this title] may be cited as the 'Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023'."

Short Title

Pub. L. 113–239, §1, Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 2847, provided that: "This Act [enacting this subchapter] may be cited as the 'Permanent Electronic Duck Stamp Act of 2013'."

§718p. Authority to issue electronic duck stamps

(a) In general

The Secretary may authorize any State to issue electronic stamps in accordance with this subchapter.

(b) Consultation

The Secretary shall implement this section in consultation with State management agencies.

(Pub. L. 113–239, §3, Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 2848.)

§718q. State application

(a) Approval of application required

The Secretary may not authorize a State to issue electronic stamps under this subchapter unless the Secretary has received and approved an application submitted by the State in accordance with this section. The Secretary may determine the number of new States per year to participate in the electronic stamp program.

(b) Contents of application

The Secretary may not approve a State application unless the application contains—

(1) a description of the format of the electronic stamp that the State will issue under this subchapter, including identifying features of the licensee that will be specified on the stamp;

(2) a description of any fee the State will charge for issuance of an electronic stamp;

(3) a description of the process the State will use to account for and transfer to the Secretary the amounts collected by the State that are required to be transferred to the Secretary under the program;

(4) the manner by which the State will transmit electronic stamp customer data to the Secretary;

(5) the manner by which actual stamps will be delivered;

(6) the policies and procedures under which the State will issue duplicate electronic stamps; and

(7) such other policies, procedures, and information as may be reasonably required by the Secretary.

(c) Publication of deadlines, eligibility requirements, and selection criteria

Not later than 30 days before the date on which the Secretary begins accepting applications under this section, the Secretary shall publish—

(1) deadlines for submission of applications;

(2) eligibility requirements for submitting applications; and

(3) criteria for approving applications.

(Pub. L. 113–239, §4, Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 2848.)

§718r. State obligations and authorities

(a) Delivery of electronic stamp

The Secretary shall require that each individual to whom a State sells an electronic stamp under this subchapter shall receive the electronic stamp—

(1) on the date of purchase of the electronic stamp; and

(2) in a manner agreed upon by the State and Secretary.

(b) Collection and transfer of electronic stamp revenue and customer information

(1) Requirement to transmit

The Secretary shall require each State authorized to issue electronic stamps to collect and submit to the Secretary in accordance with this section—

(A) the first name, last name, and complete mailing address of each individual that purchases an electronic stamp from the State;

(B) the face value amount of each electronic stamp sold by the State; and

(C) the amount of the Federal portion of any fee required by the agreement for each stamp sold.

(2) Time of transmittal

The Secretary shall require the submission under paragraph (1) to be made with respect to sales of electronic stamps by a State according to the written agreement between the Secretary and the State agency.

(3) Additional fees not affected

This section shall not apply to the State portion of any fee collected by a State under subsection (c).

(c) Electronic stamp issuance fee

A State authorized to issue electronic stamps may charge a reasonable fee to cover costs incurred by the State and the Department of the Interior in issuing electronic stamps under this subchapter, including costs of delivery of actual stamps under subsection (e).

(d) Duplicate electronic stamps

A State authorized to issue electronic stamps may issue a duplicate electronic stamp to replace an electronic stamp issued by the State that is lost or damaged.

(e) Delivery of actual stamps

The Secretary shall issue an actual stamp after March 10 of each year to each individual that purchased an electronic stamp for the preceding waterfowl season.

(f) Limitation on authority to require purchase of State license

A State may not require that an individual purchase a State hunting license as a condition of issuing an electronic stamp under this subchapter.

(Pub. L. 113–239, §5, Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 2848; Pub. L. 118–25, §2(a), Dec. 19, 2023, 137 Stat. 129.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2023—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 118–25, §2(a)(1)(A), (B), substituted "electronic stamp" for "actual stamp" in heading and "the electronic stamp" for "an actual stamp" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 118–25, §2(a)(1)(C), added par. (1) and struck out former par. (1) which read as follows: "by not later than the date on which the electronic stamp expires under section 718s(c) of this title; and".

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 118–25, §2(a)(2), substituted "actual stamps under subsection (e)" for "actual stamps".

Subsecs. (e), (f). Pub. L. 118–25, §2(a)(3), added subsec. (e) and redesignated former subsec. (e) as (f).

§718s. Electronic stamp requirements; recognition of electronic stamp

(a) Stamp requirements

The Secretary shall require an electronic stamp issued by a State under this subchapter—

(1) to have the same format as any other license, validation, or privilege the State issues under the automated licensing system of the State; and

(2) to specify identifying features of the licensee that are adequate to enable Federal, State, and other law enforcement officers to identify the holder.

(b) Recognition of electronic stamp

Any electronic stamp issued by a State under this subchapter shall—

(1) bestow upon the licensee the same privileges as are bestowed by an actual stamp;

(2) be recognized nationally as a valid Federal migratory bird hunting and conservation stamp; and

(3) authorize the licensee to hunt migratory waterfowl in any other State, in accordance with the laws of the other State governing that hunting.

(c) Duration

An electronic stamp issued by a State shall be valid through the first June 30 that occurs after the date of issuance of the electronic stamp by the State.

(Pub. L. 113–239, §6, Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 2849; Pub. L. 118–25, §2(c), Dec. 19, 2023, 137 Stat. 130.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2023—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 118–25, §2(c)(1), substituted "shall—" for "shall, during the effective period of the electronic stamp—" in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 118–25, §2(c)(2), substituted "through the first June 30 that occurs after the date of issuance of the electronic stamp by the State" for "for a period agreed to by the State and the Secretary, which shall not exceed 45 days".

§718t. Termination of State participation

The authority of a State to issue electronic stamps under this subchapter may be terminated—

(1) by the Secretary, if the Secretary—

(A) finds that the State has violated any of the terms of the application of the State approved by the Secretary under section 718q of this title; and

(B) provides to the State written notice of the termination by not later than the date that is 30 days before the date of termination; or

(2) by the State, by providing written notice to the Secretary by not later than the date that is 30 days before the termination date.

(Pub. L. 113–239, §7, Dec. 18, 2014, 128 Stat. 2849.)

SUBCHAPTER V—JUNIOR DUCK STAMP CONSERVATION AND DESIGN PROGRAM

§719. Establishment of Program

(a) In general

The Secretary of the Interior (in this subchapter referred to as the "Secretary") may carry out in accordance with this subchapter a program to be known as the "Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program" (in this subchapter referred to as the "Program") to accomplish the goals of—

(1) providing to school children environmental education opportunities relating to the conservation and management of migratory birds; and

(2) increasing the capacity for schools, States, and other educational programs to conduct conservation and education programs.

(b) Program features

The Program shall consist of—

(1) conducting in all interested States the activities which on the day before October 6, 1994, are conducted under the program known as the Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program;

(2) other activities authorized under the Program by this subchapter or any other Act; and

(3) any other activity necessary to carry out the conservation and education goals of the Program.

(c) Effort to conduct Program in all States

(1) In general

The Secretary shall take appropriate steps to seek to conduct the Program in all of the States.

(2) Annual report

The Secretary shall annually submit a report to the Congress on the status of the Program in each of the States.

(Pub. L. 103–340, §2, Oct. 6, 1994, 108 Stat. 3119; Pub. L. 106–316, §2(1), Oct. 19, 2000, 114 Stat. 1276.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2000—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 106–316 struck out "50" before "States" in pars. (1) and (2).

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Short Title of 2006 Amendment

Pub. L. 109–166, §1, Jan. 10, 2006, 119 Stat. 3576, provided that: "This Act [amending sections 719a and 719c of this title and provisions listed in a table of National Wildlife Refuges set out under section 668dd of this title] may be cited as the 'Junior Duck Stamp Reauthorization Amendments Act of 2005'."

Short Title

Pub. L. 103–340, §1, Oct. 6, 1994, 108 Stat. 3119, provided that: "This Act [enacting this subchapter and provisions listed in a table of National Wildlife Refuges set out under section 668dd of this title] may be cited as the 'Junior Duck Stamp Conservation and Design Program Act of 1994'."

§719a. Junior Duck Stamp

(a) Competition

As part of the Program, the Secretary may annually conduct a competition to—

(1) solicit the submission by students at elementary and secondary schools of designs relating to conservation of migratory birds; and

(2) select winning designs from among those submissions for use for licensing and marketing under subsection (b).

(b) Licensing and marketing of design of Junior Duck Stamps

As part of the Program, the Secretary may—

(1) license and market winning designs selected in competitions under subsection (a); and

(2) license and market stamps bearing those designs, which shall be known as Junior Duck Stamps.

(c) Use of proceeds

Amounts received under subsection (b)—

(1) ¹ shall be available to the Secretary until expended, without further appropriations, solely for—

(A) awards, prizes, and scholarships to individuals who submit designs in competitions under subsection (a), that are—

(i) selected in such a competition as winning designs; or

(ii) otherwise determined in such a competition to be superior;

(B) awards and prizes to schools, students, teachers, and other participants to further education activities related to the conservation education goals of the Program;

(C) award ceremonies for winners of national and State Junior Duck Stamp competitions;

(D) travel expenses for winners of national and State Junior Duck Stamp competitions to award ceremonies, if—

(i) the event is intended to honor students for winning a national competition; or

(ii) the event is intended to honor students for winning a State competition;

(E) expenses for licensing and marketing under subsection (b);

(F) expenses for migratory bird reference materials or supplies awarded to schools that participate in the Program; and

(G) expenses for marketing and educational materials developed to promote the Program; ²

(Pub. L. 103–340, §3, Oct. 6, 1994, 108 Stat. 3119; Pub. L. 109–166, §2, Jan. 10, 2006, 119 Stat. 3576.)

Editorial Notes

Amendments

2006—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 109–166 amended heading and text of subsec. (c) generally. Prior to amendment, text read as follows: "Amounts received under subsection (b) of this section—

"(1) shall be available to the Secretary until expended, without further appropriations, solely for—

"(A) awards and scholarships to individuals who submit designs in competitions under subsection (a) of this section, that are—

"(i) selected in such a competition as winning designs; or

"(ii) otherwise determined in such a competition to be superior;

"(B) awards to schools and other participants to further education activities related to the conservation education goals of the Program; and

"(C) expenses for licensing and marketing under subsection (b) of this section; and

"(2) may not be used for administrative expenses of the Program."

¹ So in original. Subsec. (c), as amended by Pub. L. 109–166, does not contain a par. (2).

² So in original.

§719b. Acceptance of gifts, devises, and bequests

The Secretary may accept and use any gift, devise, or bequest of personal property, or proceeds thereof, for the purpose of funding the activities described in section 719a(c)(1)(A) and (B) of this title.

(Pub. L. 103–340, §4, Oct. 6, 1994, 108 Stat. 3120.)

§719b–1. Definition of State

For the purposes of this subchapter, the term "State" includes the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and any other territory or possession of the United States.

(Pub. L. 103–340, §5, as added Pub. L. 106–316, §2(3), Oct. 19, 2000, 114 Stat. 1276.)

Editorial Notes

Prior Provisions

A prior section 5 of Pub. L. 103–340 was renumbered section 6 and is classified to section 719c of this title.

§719c. Authorization of appropriations

(a) Authorization

There are authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary for administrative expenses of the Program $350,000 for each of the fiscal years 2006 through 2010.

(b) Limitations on use for distribution to State and regional coordinators to implement competitions

Of the amount appropriated under this section for a fiscal year—

(1) not more than $100,000 may be used by the Secretary to administer the Program; and

(2) not more than $250,000 may be distributed to State and regional coordinators to implement competitions under the Program.

(Pub. L. 103–340, §6, formerly §5, Oct. 6, 1994, 108 Stat. 3120; renumbered §6 and amended Pub. L. 106–316, §§1, 2(2), Oct. 19, 2000, 114 Stat. 1276; Pub. L. 109–166, §3, Jan. 10, 2006, 119 Stat. 3577.)

Editorial Notes

Codification

Another section 6 of Pub. L. 103–340 was renumbered section 7 and enacted provisions listed in a table of National Wildlife Refuges set out under section 668dd of this title.

Amendments

2006—Pub. L. 109–166 designated existing provisions as subsec. (a), inserted subsec. (a) heading, substituted "$350,000" for "$250,000" and "fiscal years 2006 through 2010" for "fiscal years 2001 through 2005", and added subsec. (b).

2000—Pub. L. 106–316, §1, substituted "for each of the fiscal years 2001 through 2005" for "for each of the fiscal years 1995 through 2000".