Trust the Science Act
Trust the Science Act
Plain Language Summary
# Trust the Science Act (HR 130) - Plain Language Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would remove federal protections for gray wolves in the lower 48 U.S. states (except for the endangered Mexican wolf subspecies) under the Endangered Species Act. It would reinstate a 2020 rule that delisted gray wolves—meaning they would no longer be classified as endangered or threatened species. The bill also prevents courts from reviewing or challenging this decision once it's implemented. **Who It Affects & Key Details:** The bill would primarily affect ranchers, hunters, and environmental groups, as removing protections would allow states to manage wolf populations with fewer federal restrictions.
It would also impact wildlife conservation efforts. The bill is responding to a 2022 court decision that blocked the previous delisting and restored gray wolf protections. Notably, the bill's prohibition on judicial review is unusual—it prevents courts from overturning the decision, even if legal challenges are filed. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not passed either chamber of Congress. It was introduced in the 119th Congress by Representative Lauren Boebert (R-CO).
CRS Official Summary
Trust the Science Act This bill directs the Department of the Interior to remove protections for the gray wolf under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA). Specifically, the bill requires Interior to reissue the final rule titled Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Removing the Gray Wolf (Canis lupus) From the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and published on November 3, 2020. The rule removed the gray wolf in the lower 48 United States, except for the Mexican wolf (C. l. baileyi) subspecies, from the endangered and threatened species list. However, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California vacated the rule on February 10, 2022. As a result, the gray wolf reattained the protection status it had prior to the rule's promulgation. The bill also prohibits the reissuance of the rule from being subject to judicial review.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.