Grizzly Bear State Management Act
Sponsors:
Rep. Hageman, Harriet M. [R-WY-At Large]
Status: Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 281.
(2025-10-03)
View Original Bill Text
Plain Language Summary
This bill would let states manage grizzly bears in certain areas instead of the federal government. Right now, grizzly bears are protected under the Endangered Species Act, which means the federal government controls their protection. This bill would remove that protection for grizzly bears living in the Greater Yellowstone area and parts of Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Washington. States would then make decisions about grizzly bear hunting and management in those areas.
Key Points
- Removes federal Endangered Species Act protection for grizzly bears in specific regions
- Gives state governments control over managing grizzly bear populations in those areas
- Prevents people from using courts to challenge this change in who manages the bears
Who This Affects
This bill affects people who live in Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Washington near grizzly bear areas. It affects hunters, ranchers, wildlife officials, and conservation groups. It also affects the grizzly bears themselves, since different rules would apply to their protection.
Arguments For
- States know their local wildlife better and can manage bears more effectively than distant federal officials
- Grizzly bear populations have recovered enough that they no longer need special federal protection
Arguments Against
- Grizzly bears still need strong protection to keep their populations healthy and growing
- Federal protection ensures consistent rules across state borders where bears travel
Fiscal Impact
No fiscal impact estimated
Summary generated by AI (claude-sonnet-4-5-20250929). For informational purposes only.
Always refer to the original bill text for legal accuracy.