S.171 - To remove the lesser prairie-chicken from the lists of threatened species and endangered species published pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, to amend that Act to exclude the lesser prairie-chicken from the authority of that Act, and for other purposes. (119th Congress)
Summary
S.171 aims to remove the lesser prairie-chicken from the lists of threatened and endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. It amends the Act to specifically exclude the lesser prairie-chicken from its authority. The bill was introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the lesser prairie-chicken would no longer be protected under the Endangered Species Act. This could lead to changes in land use and conservation efforts in areas inhabited by the species. The delisting would remove federal protections and potentially shift management responsibilities to state and local entities.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced regulatory burden on landowners and businesses operating in areas inhabited by the lesser prairie-chicken.
- Increased flexibility for land development and resource extraction.
- Potential for economic growth in affected areas due to reduced environmental restrictions.
- Streamlined permitting processes for projects that may impact the species.
- State and local governments gain more control over conservation efforts.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential decline in the lesser prairie-chicken population due to reduced habitat protection.
- Loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services in affected areas.
- Increased risk of extinction for the species.
- Negative impacts on other species that rely on the same habitat.
- Reduced opportunities for scientific research and monitoring of the species.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill falls under the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) as it relates to regulating activities that affect interstate commerce, including land use and species conservation. Congress has the power to enact laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.
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).