Delaware's Senate has narrowly passed a measure banning the in-state purchase or sale of ivory or rhinoceros horn.
The bill was approved on an 11-to-10 vote Thursday and now goes to the House.
New Jersey state Sen. Raymond Lesniak, who successfully led the fight for a similar ban in his state, testified in support of Delaware's bill.
Violating the ban would be a criminal misdemeanor and also subject to a civil penalty of up to $10,000.
While prohibiting intra-state sale or purchase of ivory, the bill includes an exemption for items that are at least 100 years old.
It also would allow the purchase or sale of ivory or rhinoceros horn for educational or scientific purposes by bona fide educational or scientific institutions if not prohibited by federal law.
