Eagle Feather Law Law and Legal Definition
Eagle feather law means the legal permission granted to the Native Americans for their ownership and possession of eagles in order to continue their traditional practices. Under the federal law, eagle feather law is only applicable to those persons who are Native Americans enrolled in a federally recognized tribe. Eagle feather law is an exception to federal wildlife laws regarding eagles and other migratory birds.
Pursuant to 50 CFR 22.22, state will issue a permit only to members of Indian entities recognized and eligible to receive services from the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs listed under 25 U.S.C. 479a-1 engaged in religious activities who satisfy all the issuance criteria of this section. Under the provisions of this section, a permit is issued authorizing the taking, possession, and transportation within the U.S., or transportation into or out of the U.S. of lawfully acquired bald eagles or golden eagles, or their parts, nests, or eggs for Indian religious use. A permit under this section will not be issued that authorizes the transportation into or out of the U.S. of any live bald or golden eagles, or any live eggs of these birds.