Ejiao Act of 2025
Summary
The Ejiao Act of 2025 aims to prohibit the import, export, transport, sale, and purchase of donkeys, donkey hides, and products containing ejiao (a gelatin derived from donkey skins) in the United States. This bill addresses concerns about the decimation of global donkey populations due to the demand for ejiao in traditional Chinese medicine and cosmetic products. The Act outlines findings related to the impact on impoverished communities that rely on donkeys and establishes penalties for violations.
Expected Effects
The Act would likely reduce the demand for donkey skins, potentially aiding in the recovery of donkey populations globally, particularly in Africa and Latin America. It may also impact businesses involved in the import and sale of ejiao products within the United States. The act could also lead to increased illegal trade of donkeys and ejiao products.
Potential Benefits
- Protects global donkey populations from decimation.
- Supports impoverished communities that rely on donkeys for their livelihoods.
- Reduces the risk of illegal donkey theft and slaughter.
- May encourage the use of alternative gelatins from plant sources.
- Could improve the international standing of the US by addressing animal welfare concerns.
Potential Disadvantages
- May negatively impact businesses that import and sell ejiao products.
- Could potentially increase the cost of certain traditional Chinese medicine or cosmetic products for consumers.
- Enforcement may require additional resources for U.S. Customs and Border Protection and other agencies.
- Potential for increased illegal trade and black market activities related to donkeys and ejiao.
- May face opposition from groups that support the use of ejiao in traditional practices.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Ejiao Act appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate and foreign commerce. By regulating the import and export of donkeys, donkey hides, and products containing ejiao, the Act falls under this enumerated power. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).