Early this year, Representative Andy Biggs introduced H.R. 65 - Armed Forces Endangered Species Exemption Act, a harmful bill that undermines the foundational principles of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Passed in 1973, the Endangered Species Act (ESA) protects endangered species and their habitats, requiring federal agencies to consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to avoid harm to species or critical habitats. 

H.R. 65 would exempt defense activities from the ESA. It would prevent FWS and NMFS from designating military or National Guard sites as critical habitats and allow the Department of Defense (DOD) to bypass ESA consultations with FWS when land is needed for military use. The bill also exempts military personnel and contractors from ESA restrictions during defense operations, even if those activities harm or disturb endangered species. The ESA is crucial for conservation, and exempting military activities could prioritize defense over biodiversity, weakening the law's ability to protect endangered species.

Sign the petition below to urge members of Congress to defend the integrity of the ESA by opposing H.R. 65.