The feds no longer protect endangered species habitat. States say they can’t pick up the slack.

By: Alex Brown

Outlets: Stateline

Published: July 20, 2026

Words: 1,635

Last Updated: 1 month ago

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The Trump administration is removing protections from the key places where endangered species live, saying states can keep the areas safe.

But experts say states aren’t equipped for the task.

Earlier this month, the Trump administration finalized a major change to the Endangered Species Act, rolling back protections for the forests, wetlands, deserts and other critical habitats that many plants and animals rely on.

The new rule will open many landscapes to development, logging, …

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