Boston (June 2, 2016) ­ Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass), top Democrat on the Africa and Global Health Policy Subcommittee, released the following statement on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s final Ivory Rule specific to the African elephant under Section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act. The United States is the globe’s second largest market for illegal wildlife products, such as ivory. Last year, Senator Markey’s Africa and Global Health Policy subcommittee held a hearing on illegal wildlife trafficking and discussed solutions to the global issue.

“The growing threat from well equipped, armed and trained violent poachers demands we take immediate action to protect iconic and imperiled wildlife like the African elephant that are on the brink of extinction. I commend President Obama, Secretary Jewell and Director Ashe for their leadership and efforts to help put an end to the proliferation of illegal wildlife trafficking.  We must build on these efforts and continue to combat wildlife trafficking that threatens the national and economic security of African nations. I look forward to working with African leaders to find innovative ways to help protect their wildlife and support their people.”