The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), under the Trump administration, has proposed a new federal rule that would take away habitat protections for endangered and threatened species. This comes soon after the demolition of the Pink House, seen by many as a symbol of environmental loss.
The proposed change would redefine the word “harm” in the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Now, “harm” includes damaging or destroying the places where endangered species live. Environmental groups say removing this part of the law would make it much easier to develop, log or mine in those areas.
The FWS and National Marine Fisheries Service argue that harming a species’ habitat isn’t the same as directly hurting the species itself. But environmentalists disagree and say the law has always treated habitat damage as a serious threat.
The U.S. Supreme Court has also supported that interpretation in the past.
“This rule cuts the heart out of the Endangered Species Act,” said Noah Greenwald of the Center for Biological Diversity. “If harm no longer includes habitat loss, then endangered species lose one of their most important protections.”
Normally, there is a 60-day public comment period for changes like this, but this time it was shortened to just 30 days.
The deadline to submit comments is May 19. Rochelle Joseph, who helped lead efforts to save the Pink House, urged people to speak up. “At the very least, preserving their habitat preserves yours,” she said.
Local photographer and environmental advocate Sandy Tilton also warned that this rule could lead to more logging, mining and destruction of public lands. “This is a slippery slope,” she said. “If we don’t protect their habitats, we risk losing these species forever.”
Anyone can submit a comment on the rule by visiting the Federal Register online. “Think about it,” Tilton said. “If we stop protecting the homes of endangered animals, what do you think will happen to them?”
To comment on the proposed rule change, visit the Federal Register to comment at:
https://tinyurl.com/commentbymay19.
