S 254 · Signed into Law · 06-12-26
ARTIST Act
What does the ARTIST Act do?
S 254 is a Senate bill sponsored by Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK). Rewrites the Alaska Native exemption in the Marine Mammal Protection Act to protect the right of coastal Alaska Natives to harvest marine mammals for subsistence and to make and sell authentic handicrafts, including items made from walrus and whale ivory. It also bars states from blocking interstate sale of those handicrafts.
Did S 254 pass? Where it stands
As of July 17, 2026, S 254 has been signed into law on June 12, 2026.
Status: Signed into Law
Latest vote: House Passed 404–14 on June 3, 2026
Outlook: Enacted
Enacted: Signed into law on June 12, 2026
Key provisions
- Alaska Native Harvest Exemption
- Coastal Alaska Natives may take marine mammals for subsistence or to make and sell authentic handicrafts
- Harvest must not be done in a wasteful manner
- Defines "marine mammal ivory" as walrus or cetacean tooth or tusk
- Sale and Interstate Commerce
- No state may prohibit interstate sale, trade, or possession of qualifying Alaska Native handicrafts
- Authentic items may be sold in interstate commerce only if they meet the handicraft definition
- Edible portions may be sold for native consumption in Alaska native villages
- Depletion Safeguards
- If a species is found depleted, the Secretary may regulate Alaska Native taking
- Such limits require prior notice and a public hearing
- Regulations must be removed once the need disappears
Last updated June 25, 2026