- Donald Trump's administration is rolling back environmental protections under the 1973 Endangered Species Act (ESA), claiming its scope was unreasonably expanded by “Radical Climate Activists”.
- Trump stated on Truth Social that the previous interpretation of the ESA stifled the production of natural resources like oil, natural gas, and timber, and hindered infrastructure development.
- The changes, first announced in July, relax the definition of what constitutes “harm” to sensitive habitats, aiming to return the ESA to its “original intent” as explained by Justice Antonin Scalia.
- Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick supported the modifications, arguing the prior approach created regulatory burdens for businesses and fishermen.
- Environmental organisations, including Earthjustice and Oceana, strongly condemned the move, warning it removes crucial habitat protections and could lead to species extinction.
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