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Trump Administration Calls on “God Squad” to Weaken Endangered Species Act Protections
The Trump administration today announced its intent to convene the Endangered Species Committee — colloquially known as the “God Squad”— on March 31, 2026, to consider an exemption under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for oil and gas-related activities in the Gulf of Mexico.
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Defenders Statement on Trump Rollback Opening Marine Monument to Fishing Industry
On Thursday, April 17, the Trump Administration issued a proclamation calling for the opening of commercial fishing in waters of the Pacific Islands Heritage Marine
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CITES Proposals for Endangered Sharks Pass First Hurdle at COP19
In a monumental step for marine conservation, two proposals to protect 60 sharks passed the first hurdle towards protection by the 19th Conference of the Parties (CoP19) of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
More Sharks and Rays Press Releases
New Protections Proposed for Oceanic Whitetip Sharks
The National Marine Fisheries Services (NMFS) published a proposed regulation to protect the oceanic whitetip sharkin the Federal Register today in response to a petition filed by Defenders of Wildlife.
jcovey@defenders.org
