Trump Administration Modifies Endangered Species Act Enforcement

Why it matters locally: Changes to Endangered Species Act enforcement could affect how federal agencies assess projects in North Carolina, particularly those impacting species like the red-cockaded woodpecker or Carolina northern flying squirrel.

WASHINGTON – The Trump administration finalized a rule on Friday that revises enforcement procedures for the Endangered Species Act. The new regulation, implemented by the administration, narrows the definition of “harm” under the statute. Passed in 1973, the Endangered Species Act provides for the conservation of species at risk of extinction and the ecosystems necessary for their survival. Federal agencies use the law to guide actions impacting protected wildlife.