Resolution would restore habitat destruction to endangered species "harm" definition
Placed on the calendarS.J.Res. 204Latest action
Sponsor: Adam B. Schiff · Senator · CA
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration relating to "Rescinding the Definition of 'Harm' Under the Endangered Species Act".
119th Congress
Topics: Environment & energy
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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This resolution would cancel a rule that removed habitat destruction from the legal definition of "harm" under the Endangered Species Act.
40-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill uses the to cancel a regulation issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and NOAA that removed habitat destruction from the legal definition of "harm" under the Endangered Species Act. If passed, it would restore the broader definition, meaning habitat destruction could again be treated as illegal harm to a species. It also blocks the agencies from issuing a similar rule without new authorization from Congress.
Who does it affect?
Landowners, developers, farmers, and companies whose projects affect protected habitats are affected, as are environmental groups, wildlife agencies, and communities near endangered species habitats.
Why does it matter?
The rule change determines how strongly federal law can be used to stop logging, construction, or development that damages habitats, even without direct harm to individual animals.
AI-drafted summary. Check it against the official text before you act on it.
Based on the “Placed on Calendar Senate” text of Sep 15, 2026.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedAug 3, 2026
- Senate committee
- Senate voteYou are here · Sep 15, 2026
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: it was placed on the , and the official record shows no floor action on it since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 618.