Committee advances changes to endangered-species rules and irreplaceable natural areas review

The Environment and Transportation Committee advanced Senate Bill 431, which alters how the state defines "foreseeable future" and "harm" under endangered and threatened species statutes, clarifies listing and delisting processes, authorizes designation of essential habitats with management protocols, and requires the Department of Natural Resources to review and, if warranted, update Irreplaceable Natural Areas regulations by July 1, 2033.

Chair Boyce explained the substantive changes and noted the committee amendments removed a prior prohibition on taking certain migratory birds. "The committee amendments strike a prohibition against the taking of certain migratory birds," he said while moving the amendments, which the committee adopted. Members asked questions and the bill passed as amended.

The bill also requires DNR to adopt regulations authorizing the taking of black vultures under certain circumstances and clarifies conflict-of-interest and membership provisions for boards created or modified by the bill.