Trump Administration Modifies Endangered Species Act Enforcement

Why it matters locally: Kentucky, home to several endangered and threatened species like the Indiana bat and various mussel species in its waterways, could see nuanced changes in how federal projects impacting their habitats are regulated under the revised Endangered Species Act enforcement.

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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.