Plant and Wildlife Import/Export Information to Be Disclosed: Objections Due June 1

Businesses that import and export wildlife or plants may have their information disclosed next month following a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). However, qualifying parties may file objections until June 1.

The FOIA request to FWS demands access to data collected on the 3-177 form from January 1, 2015 until December 31, 2020. The form has served as a declaration for wildlife and fauna imports and exports in that time.

Certain types of information are grounds for objection to disclosure, however.

• Import/Export License Numbers
• Importer/Exporter Name or Location
• Air Waybill Number
• Port of Entry
• Value
• Origin

If your business has submitted 3-177 during the FOIA request window, you may review the form for sensitive information and submit objections accordingly. Objections are due to FWS by June 1 in order for redactions to be completed.

Contact Scarbrough for further information and assistance.