‘Exploitation’: WA joins lawsuit to block Trump admin. from gutting Endangered Species Act

Washington is joining forces with 20 other states to sue the Trump administration over the Endangered Species Act.

New federal rules would gut the Endangered Species Act, according to Washington State Attorney General (AG) Nick Brown. The rules would have consequences for some of our most iconic wild animals.

“Instead of stewardship, this administration’s approach to our land and to our water is one of exploitation,” Brown said at a news conference Wednesday.

California AG Rob Bonta joined Brown. The pair claimed that new rules put eagles, whales, and other protected animals at risk.

“It could potentially devastate endangered species like orcas and salmon that are inseparable from Washington state’s economy, our identity, and our traditions,” Brown said.

Brown is co-leading a coalition of state attorneys general that are going to court to try to stop the feds from loosening regulations.

2 suits target new rules that states say weaken Endangered Species Act protections

There are two suits being brought by the group. One is filed against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and another includes the National Marine Fisheries Service.

The suits challenge new rules under the Endangered Species Act that the group of state AGs said make it easier for the federal government, private companies, or individuals to modify or degrade the habitats of threatened and endangered species. The states also allege the rules leave threatened species without core protections, undermining Congress’ mandate when it passed the law.

The Endangered Species Act was passed in 1973 and is considered the main law for the protection of more than 1,600 plant and animal species.