Are there any laws that restrict the trade of endangered species?

Yes, there are laws in Washington that restrict the trade of endangered species. The Washington State Endangered Species Act (WESA) was enacted in 1981 and is the state law aimed at conserving plants and wildlife. The Act defines endangered species as any species of fish, wildlife, or plant that is threatened with extinction by human activities, such as hunting, trapping, or habitat destruction. Under the Act, it is illegal to buy, sell, or otherwise trade in any endangered species or their parts in Washington. It is also illegal to possess or transport endangered species without a permit from the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. For example, it is illegal to buy, sell, or possess any parts of threatened species such as sea turtles, polar bears, or orca whales without a permit. In addition, Washington has enacted the Washington Wild Animal Trade Act (WWATA) which prohibits the trade of certain animals and their parts, such as tigers, elephants, and rhinos. The Act also requires that any wild animal species listed as endangered or threatened under the WESA are to be treated as a prohibited species under the WWATA. Therefore, it is illegal to buy, sell, transport, or possess any parts of these species without first obtaining a permit from the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. By passing these laws, Washington is taking important steps to protect endangered species and ensure that they do not become extinct. By restricting the trade of these species, the government is protecting them from exploitation and ensuring their survival for generations to come.

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