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Promoting Local Management of the Lesser Prairie Chicken Act
12/15/2023, 3:53 PM
Summary of Bill HR 248
The bill recognizes the importance of local knowledge and expertise in the conservation of the lesser prairie chicken and seeks to give states and local governments more control over the management of the species. This includes allowing states to develop and implement their own conservation plans, rather than relying on federal regulations.
Additionally, the bill aims to streamline the permitting process for activities that may impact the lesser prairie chicken, such as energy development and agriculture. It also encourages voluntary conservation efforts by providing incentives for landowners who take steps to protect the species and its habitat. Overall, the Promoting Local Management of the Lesser Prairie Chicken Act seeks to strike a balance between conservation efforts and the needs of local communities. By giving states and local stakeholders more control over the management of the species, the bill aims to ensure the long-term survival of the lesser prairie chicken while also supporting economic development in the region.
Congressional Summary of HR 248
Promoting Local Management of the Lesser Prairie Chicken Act
This bill prohibits any population of the lesser prairie-chicken (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus) in Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado, or New Mexico from being listed as endangered or threatened under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA). The lesser prairie-chicken is a type of grouse.
Currently, two distinct population segments (DPS) of the lesser prairie-chicken are listed under the ESA. The Southern DPS of the lesser prairie-chicken is listed as endangered and the Northern DPS is listed as threatened. The bill removes both populations from the list.
In addition, the bill bans Interior from listing any population of the lesser prairie-chicken as endangered or threatened in the future.
