Mead Testifies on Endangered Species Act

Wyoming Governor Matt Mead yesterday testified before the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works regarding the Endangered Species Act Amendments of 2018.
The legislative hearing focused on draft legislation released by Senator John Barrasso, reauthorizing the Endangered Species Act for the first time since 1992. According to the Senator’s office, the bill emphasizes elevating the role of states and increasing transparency in the implementation of the ESA. It also prioritizes resources to better meet conservation goals and provides regulatory certainty to promote conservation and recovery activities.
Barrasso’s office says the draft bill has received broad support from stakeholders, state and local governments, and conservation organizations.
Barrasso worked with the Western Governors’ Association in drafting the legislation. The draft legislation includes provisions inspired by the association’s Species Conservation and Endangered Species Act Initiative, which has been led by Governor Mead.