H.R.180 - Endangered Species Transparency and Reasonableness Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.180, the "Endangered Species Transparency and Reasonableness Act of 2025," aims to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 by increasing transparency and incorporating state, tribal, and local data in listing decisions. It mandates the online publication of data supporting endangered species determinations and requires federal agencies to disclose expenditures related to Endangered Species Act litigation.
The bill also seeks to ensure the use of state, tribal, and local information in decision-making processes and modifies the awarding of litigation costs.
In summary, the bill emphasizes transparency, collaboration with local entities, and fiscal accountability in the context of endangered species protection.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to increased public scrutiny of endangered species listings due to the mandated online publication of supporting data. This could result in more informed public discourse and potentially challenge existing listings.
Furthermore, the inclusion of state, tribal, and local data could alter listing decisions, potentially leading to fewer species being listed or different conservation strategies.
The disclosure of expenditures related to ESA litigation will likely increase accountability and may influence the frequency and nature of lawsuits.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency in the listing process for endangered species.
- Greater consideration of state, tribal, and local data in listing decisions.
- Enhanced accountability for federal agencies through the disclosure of litigation expenditures.
- Potential for more efficient and targeted conservation efforts due to better data and collaboration.
- May reduce frivolous lawsuits by increasing transparency and accountability.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased administrative burden on federal agencies to publish and maintain online databases.
- Potential for misuse or misinterpretation of data by the public, leading to unnecessary controversy.
- Possible delays in listing decisions due to the requirement to incorporate state, tribal, and local data.
- Risk of political pressure influencing listing decisions due to increased transparency.
- May disproportionately benefit industries that seek to weaken environmental protections.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's emphasis on transparency and accountability aligns with general principles of good governance, though the Constitution does not explicitly address endangered species. The requirement for data publication could be viewed as promoting informed public discourse, which is related to the First Amendment's guarantee of freedom of speech.
Section 6(a) touches on federalism, as it requires providing data to affected states before making a determination under section 4(a). This could be seen as respecting the role of states in managing their natural resources.
The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or provisions.
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).