Sloth imports would be barred, with narrow research and breeding exceptions

People and businesses would generally be barred from importing any sloth species. The breeding exception covers transfers to facilities accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for those facilities' breeding programs. Dead sloths or their parts could enter for research with documents that satisfy the Interior Secretary. Breeding imports would need documents proving the animal was not taken from the wild after enactment.

Violators could face fines and lose covered federal permissions. Cancellation covers permissions the Interior Secretary issues for importing or exporting wildlife or plants, or operating quarantine stations or rescue centers for imported wildlife or plants. Civil fines would require notice and a chance for a hearing. Criminal fines would require a knowing violation. The Interior Secretary would owe no compensation for canceled permissions.

Federal officials could take ownership of sloths brought in against the import rules. This also covers violations of regulations issued under the import rules. People convicted of an offense or assessed a civil fine would owe storage, care, and upkeep costs for animals seized in connection with their violation. Search and seizure warrants would have to follow federal criminal court rules.