Summary of HR 587: Removal of the Lesser Prairie-Chicken from Endangered Species Lists

Bill Number: HR 587

Introduced: March 11, 2025

Status: Introduced in House

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

HR 587 aims to remove the lesser prairie-chicken (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus) from the lists of threatened and endangered species as defined by the Endangered Species Act of 1973. The bill seeks to amend the Act to prevent the Secretary of the Interior from designating the lesser prairie-chicken as a threatened or endangered species in the future.

Key Provisions

The bill includes the following significant provisions:

1. Removal from Lists:

   • The lesser prairie-chicken, including all distinct population segments, will be removed from the threatened and endangered species lists published under the Endangered Species Act.

2. Amendment to the Endangered Species Act:

   • The bill amends Section 4(a) of the Endangered Species Act, specifically:
     • It modifies the Secretary's regulatory authority by stating that the Secretary may not determine that the lesser prairie-chicken is threatened or endangered.

Affected Parties

• Wildlife and Conservation Groups: Organizations focused on the conservation of species may oppose the bill, as it removes protections for the lesser prairie-chicken.
• Agricultural and Land Use Stakeholders: Farmers and landowners in areas where the lesser prairie-chicken resides may support the bill, as it could reduce regulatory burdens associated with land use and development.
• Federal and State Agencies: Agencies responsible for wildlife management and conservation will need to adjust their policies and practices in light of the bill's provisions.

Procedural Aspects

• Legislative Timeline:

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources on March 11, 2025.
  • It underwent a series of legislative actions, including being read and adopted on the same day it was introduced.

• Related Legislation:

  • There is a companion bill, S 171, which may be considered in the Senate.

Conclusion

HR 587 represents a significant shift in the management of the lesser prairie-chicken, reflecting a balance between conservation efforts and land use interests. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it will be important to monitor discussions and debates surrounding its implications for both wildlife conservation and economic activities in affected regions.