Updated April 28, 2009

Obama Administration Revokes Rule Limiting Species Protections

AP

The Obama administration revoked a last-minute rule change by the Bush administration that ended a requirement of federal agencies to consult with the government's wildlife experts before taking any actions that could impact threatened or endangered species.

The Obama administration will again require federal agencies to consult with the government's wildlife experts before taking any actions that could impact threatened or endangered species.

The Interior and Commerce departments said Tuesday they have revoked a last-minute rule change by the Bush administration that ended the consultation requirement. Environmentalists had argued that the Bush action severely reduced protection under the federal Endangered Species Act.

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said by reimposing the requirement on agencies, it ensures that animals, fish and plants in danger of extinction "receive the full protection of the law."

Last month, Congress authorized the departments to overturn the Bush rule

Latest   Politics Videos

Real  Clear Politics Poll

Job Approval Approve Disapprove Spread
Obama 50.3% 43.8% +6.5%
Congress 27.0% 64.3% -37.3%
Direction of Country Right Direction Wrong Track Spread
RCP Average 37.7% 57.2% -19.5%

Most  Active In Politics