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November 20, 2025

Trump Administration Proposes New Rules to Significantly Weaken Endangered Species Act
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The Trump administration is proposing to significantly weaken
protections under the Endangered Species Act with new rules that would
allow for more oil drilling, logging and mining in habitats for
endangered species in the U.S. One of the proposed rules would enable
the government to consider economic factors before deciding whether to
list a species as endangered. Another rule would reduce the requirements
for other federal agencies to consult with wildlife agencies on whether
their actions could harm critical habitats. Jane Davenport, a senior
attorney at Defenders of Wildlife, said the new rules could "accelerate
the extinction crisis we face today." An investigation by the Montana
Free Press found the Endangered Species Act has prevented 291 species
from going extinct since it was passed in 1973.


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