It’s Time for ESA Reform

For the sake of both the environment and the economy, Congress must advance common sense Endangered Species Act (ESA) reforms that return power to private landowners while simultaneously protecting endangered species in a responsible way. Weaponization of the ESA and its morass of red tape are impeding our ability to move forward on vital land management practices and even building important and necessary infrastructure, all in the name of environmental activism that’s actually doing more environmental harm than good. That is why I was proud to introduce the Endangered Species Act Amendments Act of 2025 this week.

The original noble intent of the ESA was to evaluate and label at-risk wildlife while also providing a path toward full recovery. Yet since its implementation over 50 years ago, only 3% of listed species have ever been recovered. As stewards of God’s creation, we must always be mindful of our land and waters, the flora and fauna inhabiting it, and our responsibility as caretakers. When we manage our lands, waters, fields, and forests, we are caring for the homes of the plants and wildlife who reside there. Unfortunately, the ESA is failing on its goal to recover species.

My bill, the ESA Amendments Act of 2025, will implement necessary measures to take the power away from litigious environmental activist groups who openly profit off weaponizing species management and instead give more responsibilities to state, local, and tribal governments who often times have a much better understanding of the species, their needs, and their habitats.

As Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, it is my duty to lead on this issue, and it is immensely important that Congress passes this legislation which will restore commonsense to the species management process and ensure America’s rich, abundant wildlife thrives for generations to come.