Committee backs memorial urging Congress to consider delisting Mexican gray wolf; conservationists urge reliance on science

Representative (S13) introduced HCM2011 urging Congress to delist the Mexican gray wolf and hand management to states and local authorities. The sponsor said program goals have been met in some metrics and argued state control would allow better management for livestock producers.

Brianna Romero (S19) of the Humane Society (operating as Humane and World for Animals in testimony) and Sandy Bahr (S8) of the Sierra Club opposed the memorial. Romero told the committee the Mexican gray wolf remains one of North America's most endangered mammals and cited recent mortality statistics, including vehicle strikes and illegal shootings. "Wolves are not harming people, but people continue to harm wildlife," Romero said, and urged decisions remain guided by science and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's recovery process.

Cindy Toole (S4) also opposed the memorial, saying the recovery program is "moving toward success" but not yet secure; she noted the Livestock Loss Board received only 25 requests from ranchers in 2025 as one data point in assessing depredation levels.

Supporters representing ranching interests and some committee members argued for the memorial, citing livestock losses and urging that Congress consider delisting. After debate the committee recorded a due-pass recommendation for HCM2011 (vote reported as 5 ayes, 3 noes, 0 not voting).