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Trump Administration Rescinds ‘Harm’ Definition, Defenders Prepares for Court
In a devastating blow to wildlife, the Trump administration today formally rescinded the regulatory definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act, eliminating the long-standing legal interpretation that habitat destruction that leads to death or injury of protected species is illegal.
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Defenders Celebrates North Carolina General Assembly’s Historic Investment in Wildlife Crossings with Recurring Multi-million-dollar Appropriation
North Carolina's $10.2M recurring investment for wildlife crossings is a historic win, protecting both motorists and vulnerable species like black bears and red wolves. The victory is part of a years-long effort from the Safe Passage Coalition.
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Defenders of Wildlife Urges Public Opposition to NOAA’s Planned Review That Could Weaken California’s Authority to Protect its Coastline
NOAA will review California's Coastal Management Program following a directive from Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Defenders of Wildlife urges public participation in upcoming public meetings to protect California's coast, wildlife, and state authority.
Press Releases
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New Research Paper Finds Gaps in ESA Habitat Conservation Plan Program, Identifies Solutions
A new research paper by Defenders of Wildlife’s Center for Conservation Innovation on the Endangered Species Act’s Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) program reveals concerning information gaps inhibiting the complete assessment of the program’s impact and conservation outcomes.
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Defenders Applauds Rep. Huffman for New Migratory Bird Protection Act
Defenders of Wildlife today applauds Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA) for his introduction of the Migratory Bird Protection Act of 2025.
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Defenders Condemns Administration's Dangerous Proposed Budget Cuts to Wildlife Conservation
Defenders of Wildlife condemns the Trump administration’s dangerous budget proposal asking Congress to cut significant resources for vital wildlife conservation.
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Defenders Denounces Destructive Natural Resources Reconciliation Text
Defenders of Wildlife strongly denounces the House Natural Resources Committee’s text for the upcoming reconciliation bill.
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Defenders Celebrates Oregon Bill that Paves the Way for Safer Roads
Defenders of Wildlife today applauded the Oregon legislature over its passage of HB 2978, a major step toward improving public safety and protecting wildlife.
jcovey@defenders.org
