Trump Administration Removes Habitat Destruction from Endangered Species Act Protections

The Interior and Commerce Departments finalized rules that eliminate habitat loss as a form of harm under the Endangered Species Act.

• The change took effect on Friday, removing habitat destruction from the definition of "harm" in the 50-year-old law.
• Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said the rule restores common sense and aligns with the law passed by Congress.
• The departments announced the final rule will reduce permitting and compliance costs for energy, farming, and fishing industries.
• Environmental group Earthjustice said it intends to file a lawsuit, with attorney Kristen Boyles stating the rule has no scientific, legal, or public support.