H.R.135 - Manatee Protection Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 135, the Manatee Protection Act of 2025, aims to designate the West Indian manatee as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on January 3, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Natural Resources. The primary goal is to provide increased protection for the West Indian manatee by officially listing it as endangered.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would mandate that the West Indian manatee be treated as an endangered species under federal law. This would trigger various protections and conservation efforts outlined in the Endangered Species Act. The Secretary of the Interior would be required to include the manatee on the endangered species list.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced protection for the West Indian manatee population.
- Increased funding and resources for manatee conservation efforts.
- Stricter regulations to prevent harm to manatees and their habitat.
- Potential for increased biodiversity and ecosystem health.
- Greater public awareness and education about manatee conservation.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential restrictions on activities in areas inhabited by manatees, impacting industries like boating and fishing.
- Increased regulatory burden for businesses and individuals operating in manatee habitats.
- Possible economic costs associated with conservation efforts and compliance with regulations.
- Potential for litigation and legal challenges related to the implementation of the Act.
- Could lead to conflicts between conservation efforts and other economic or recreational interests.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) as it regulates activities that affect interstate commerce, including tourism and fishing related to manatee habitats. Additionally, the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18) grants Congress the power to enact laws necessary for executing its enumerated powers, such as protecting endangered species. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).