American Stewards of Liberty has released a report on the ESA Amendment Act of 2025, which proposes specific changes to limit species listings and critical habitat designations. The amendments aim to reduce regulatory burdens without overhauling the existing law.
According to the American Stewards of Liberty (ASL), House Republicans are advancing a series of proposed amendments to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) as part of H.R. 1897, known as the "ESA Amendment Act of 2025." These changes are intended to lessen regulatory burdens on landowners and businesses by tightening criteria for listing species and designating critical habitats. "The ESA has become the environmentalist’s greatest weapon to control private and federal land activities far beyond Congressional intent," said ASL.
As outlined in an ASL policy brief circulated on Capitol Hill, the proposed amendments would redefine what qualifies as a "species" under the Act, eliminate the use of "distinct population segments," and revoke listings made under earlier definitions. The changes would narrow the scope of what can be considered "critical habitat," limit its application on state and private lands, and require Congressional review for habitat designations exceeding 100,000 acres. The language seeks to tighten definitions that determine when federal agencies must conduct ESA-related consultations.
H.R. 1897, known as the ESA Amendments Act of 2025, was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on March 6, 2025, by Representative Bruce Westerman (R-AR-4), Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee. According to Congressional records, the bill is currently under consideration by this committee, with subcommittee hearings held on March 25, 2025.
American Stewards of Liberty is described on its website as a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting private property rights and restoring local control over land use decisions.
