New laws enacted in June 2016 (P.L. 2016, c.6 and c.7) prohibits possession, transport, import, export, processing, sale, or shipment of parts and products of certain animal species threatened with extinction. They also prohibits possession and transport of parts and products of certain animals at Port Authority airports and port facilities. Since the airports and facilities of the Port Authority – Newark Liberty International, J.F.K and LaGuardia – are some of the most heavily traveled routes back to the U.S. from countries in Africa, it is hoped this ban will serve as a disincentive for killing endangered animals for sport. The specified African species are the African elephant, African leopard, African lion, black rhinoceros and white rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo. Any person in violation of the law would be guilty of a fourth degree crime. Upon conviction, any property used in connection with the violation would be forfeited and disposed of in a manner consistent with the best interest of the public. Any penalty imposed under the bill would be in addition to any penalty that may be imposed pursuant to any other applicable law.
