U.S. Department of the Interior and U.S. Department of Commerce change ESA definition, citing need to curb federal overreach.

The U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Department of Commerce announced it has rescinded a key definition within the Endangered Species Act, a move environmental groups say weakens habitat protections. The change allows for less stringent regulation of development by limiting how "harm" can be defined concerning wildlife habitats. Officials argued the revision restores common sense and respects private property rights. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum stated that the action "restores common sense, respects private property, provides much-needed certainty for landowners," arguing it corrects decades of federal overreach. Environmental organizations, however, have filed lawsuits against the administration, arguing the change violates the statute's core purpose. Advocates noted the original definition included significant habitat modification as a form of harm. Government representatives asserted the new rule reduces unnecessary permitting and compliance costs. Industry groups have voiced support for the move, emphasizing the need to balance conservation goals with economic growth and American prosperity. The final rule is set to take effect on September 14.

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