Grizzly Bear State Management Act of 2025

# Summary: Grizzly Bear State Management Act of 2025 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would require the federal government to remove grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone area from the endangered species list. Currently, these bears are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act, which limits hunting and requires special management. If passed, this protection would be removed, allowing states like Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho to manage the grizzly population themselves, potentially including hunting. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem (which spans parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho), the states in that region, hunting and ranching communities, conservationists, and outdoor recreationalists.

Federal wildlife agencies would lose direct management authority over this population. **Current Status** The bill was introduced in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full Senate. The sponsor is Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming). **Note:** This remains a contentious topic, with supporters arguing the grizzly population has recovered enough for state management, while opponents worry about adequate protections for the species.