It's no better here in England. In fact, it's probably worse. I'm quite the traveller and have lived all over the world, inclding Alaska for 3 years (probably the most free place I've ever lived) and to be honest the world is getting more and more restrictive.
I don't personally own any ivory, or anything that would be considered illegal here in the UK for that matter, but I am very concerned with the direction of laws. Since the 70's, it's gotten worse and worse.
I am actually importing 2 lovely fake tusks to go beside my mantelpiece. They are made of plastic resin, but look quite real.
The UK being as it is, I fully expect trouble at customs. They may even confiscate them, thinking they are real.
We live in a world where we are told what to do and when to do it. SAD.