Bill would strip endangered status from gray wolves in Oregon, Washington

What does this do?

The bill requires the Interior Secretary to reinstate a 2020 federal rule that removed gray wolves from the endangered species list, applying it specifically to Oregon and Washington within 60 days of enactment. Gray wolves in these two states would then be managed under state wildlife laws instead of the federal Endangered Species Act.

Who does it affect?

Ranchers, farmers, and landowners dealing with wolf-livestock conflicts in Oregon and Washington; wildlife conservation groups and agencies involved in wolf recovery; rural residents in areas with expanding wolf populations.

Why does it matter?

Removing federal protections would shift wolf management to state control, which often allows more flexibility for hunting or trapping to address livestock conflicts. The bill does not affect wolf protections in any other state.

Where does it stand?