Why Legislative Awareness Matters
Laws affecting bird ownership and aviculture exist at the local, state, and federal levels—and they continue to evolve over time. While many are intended to support conservation and animal welfare, they can also directly influence how birds are owned, bred, transported, and cared for.
In the United States, longstanding laws such as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act make it unlawful to possess, sell, or transport protected native birds without authorization, demonstrating how legislation can significantly impact bird ownership and care.
Understanding these laws—and how new proposals may affect aviculture—is essential for responsible bird ownership.
Staying Informed. Acting Responsibly.
New legislative proposals are introduced every year across the country. These may include restrictions on ownership, breeding, sales, or animal care standards that affect aviculture both directly and indirectly.
Staying informed allows aviculturists to:
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Understand how proposed laws may affect them
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Communicate effectively with decision-makers
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Support responsible, science-based policies
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Respond when legislation impacts their rights and responsibilities
How AFA Supports Legislative Awareness
The American Federation of Aviculture supports legislative awareness through education, communication, and collaboration. This includes:
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Monitoring legislative activity that may impact aviculture
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Providing educational resources to members and the public
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Promoting responsible and informed advocacy
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Supporting constructive, science-based policy discussions
Legislative Awareness in Action
A look at AFA’s workshops, outreach events, and educational efforts helping aviculturists stay informed, involved, and prepared.
Explore Legislative Resources
Use the resources below to stay informed, understand current issues, and take action when it matters most.
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Current Legislation
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Legislative Advocacy Handbook
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Legislative Action Center
After the Action Alert
AFA’s legislative awareness efforts do not end when an action alert closes. When legislation is resolved, withdrawn, amended, passed, defeated, or no longer requires action, updates may be shared here so members and supporters can understand what happened and see how informed participation helps protect aviculture.