Pacific Northwest Gray Wolves Relief Act of 2025
Summary
The Pacific Northwest Gray Wolves Relief Act of 2025 directs the Secretary of the Interior to reissue a final rule from November 3, 2020, concerning the removal of gray wolves from the list of endangered and threatened wildlife. This reissuance would specifically apply to gray wolf populations in Oregon and Washington. The bill aims to address concerns related to the management of gray wolf populations in these states.
Expected Effects
The immediate effect will be the reinstatement of the 2020 rule delisting gray wolves in Oregon and Washington. This could lead to changes in how these wolf populations are managed, potentially allowing for more state control. The long-term effects could include changes in wolf populations, livestock management practices, and ecosystem dynamics within the specified region.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces conflicts between wolves and livestock owners.
- Allows for more flexible management strategies tailored to local conditions.
- Could lead to increased economic activity related to hunting and wildlife tourism.
- May address concerns of local communities impacted by wolf presence.
- Streamlines regulatory processes related to wolf management in Oregon and Washington.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could negatively impact gray wolf populations in Oregon and Washington.
- May lead to increased hunting and trapping of wolves.
- Could reduce biodiversity and ecosystem health.
- May face opposition from environmental groups and conservationists.
- Potential for legal challenges regarding the delisting decision.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment stems from Congress's power to regulate wildlife management, though this power is not explicitly enumerated. The Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8) could be invoked if wolf populations affect interstate commerce or tourism. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or protections.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).