The U.S. Senate has introduced the Kangaroo Protection Act of 2024, aiming to ban the sale and manufacture of kangaroo leather (k-leather) products. Sponsored by Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.), the bill targets the commercial use of kangaroo skin, particularly in high-end soccer cleats. If passed, the legislation would impose penalties of up to $10,000 for violations.
An estimated 2 million wild kangaroos are killed annually for their leather, which is widely used in footwear. The bill seeks to stop the mass slaughter, deemed “inhumane” by its sponsors. Duckworth emphasized the need to promote humane alternatives, saying, “The mass killing of millions of kangaroos is needless and inhumane.”
The U.S. is currently the second-largest market for k-leather products, though brands like Nike, Puma, and New Balance have recently discontinued their use. However, companies like Adidas and Mizuno continue to use kangaroo skin. Over 150 organizations, including U.S. and Australian nonprofits, support the bill, which mirrors a previous House proposal currently stalled in committee.
