Idaho AG Calls For Grizzly Bears To Be Removed From ESA

Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador is calling on the federal government to remove grizzly bears in the Lower 48 from the Endangered Species Act.  Labrador submitted comments this week on a revised federal proposal governing grizzly protections.  He said Idaho has helped restore the bear population and should have more control over wildlife management.

Labrador also wants the Fish and Wildlife Service to establish clearer rules protecting hunters, trappers and rural communities from lawsuits brought under the Endangered Species Act.  He said the federal government should not force states to regulate private hunting and trapping activity to avoid federal liability.

Labrador says Idaho’s position is clear: the bears have recovered and should be delisted entirely.  You can read this week's letter Here.

A separate federal review of the grizzly bear’s overall endangered species status remains underway, with a court-ordered deadline in December.

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