In a controversial move, the Trump administration has announced plans to redefine "harm" under the Endangered Species Act, a decision expected to significantly impact wildlife protections in the U.S.
Trump Administration Proposes Major Redefinition of 'Harm' in Endangered Species Act
Trump Administration Proposes Major Redefinition of 'Harm' in Endangered Species Act
Critics warn that changes could severely weaken protections for wildlife and their habitats
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration revealed a proposal that would shift the interpretation of "harm" to focus solely on direct killing or injury, such as through hunting, while excluding habitat destruction from its definition. This reformation is believed to pave the way for intensified logging, drilling, and other development projects that have long faced limitations under existing regulations. Administration advocates maintain that the current definition burdens businesses and hinders economic activities.
Environmental advocates have voiced strong opposition, claiming that habitat loss is the leading cause of extinction and that the proposed changes would dismantle foundational protections for countless species. Andrew Bowman, president and CEO of Defenders of Wildlife, highlighted that the majority of species listed as endangered are there primarily due to habitat destruction. Critics are labeling the proposal as the most significant rollback of protections since the Endangered Species Act was signed into law in 1973, warning that it could lead to dire consequences for biodiversity across the nation.
Environmental advocates have voiced strong opposition, claiming that habitat loss is the leading cause of extinction and that the proposed changes would dismantle foundational protections for countless species. Andrew Bowman, president and CEO of Defenders of Wildlife, highlighted that the majority of species listed as endangered are there primarily due to habitat destruction. Critics are labeling the proposal as the most significant rollback of protections since the Endangered Species Act was signed into law in 1973, warning that it could lead to dire consequences for biodiversity across the nation.
