[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992-1993, Book II)]
[October 23, 1992]
[Page 1938]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



[[Page 1938]]


Statement on Signing the Wild Bird Conservation Act of 1992
October 23, 1992

    I am signing into law H.R. 5013, the ``Wild Bird Conservation Act of 
1992.'' I take great pleasure in signing this Act because it promotes 
the conservation of wild exotic birds and provides for other measures 
related to fish and wildlife conservation. It also demonstrates our 
global leadership in the protection and conservation of wildlife.
    Over the past 4 years, my Administration has played a strong role in 
the development of a world conservation strategy. The United States is a 
long-standing member of the Convention on International Trade in 
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). This Act provides an 
important mechanism for the United States to implement the decisions and 
resolutions agreed to under CITES. Other nations, including those within 
the European Community, have also acted to regulate imports of exotic 
wild birds whose populations may be detrimentally affected by trade.
    Furthermore, this Act authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to 
support the management efforts of other nations in the conservation of 
their wild birds. Funds to assist these countries will be made available 
through the Exotic Bird Conservation Fund established by this Act.
    Our action here exemplifies our commitment to wildlife conservation 
around the world. By strengthening our wildlife import policies and by 
encouraging the wildlife management programs of other countries, this 
Act will help to prevent any further decimation of wild bird 
populations.
    I commend the bipartisan leadership of the House Merchant Marine and 
Fisheries Committee as well as a broad range of groups, including 
conservation organizations, importers, scientists, breeders, humane 
organizations, and the pet industry, for working with the Administration 
on this legislation.

                                                             George Bush

The White House,
October 23, 1992.

                    Note: H.R. 5013, approved October 23, was assigned 
                        Public Law No. 102-440.