March 17, 2006
This week on Science Friday we'll get the latest news on the Endangered Species Act (ESA). "One of the great strengths of the Endangered Species Act," says the Union of Concerned Scientists, "is its foundation in sound scientific principles and its reliance on the best available science." But thousands of scientists are concerned that proposed amendments to the ESA could "critically weaken" the law's scientific foundation. Earlier this month, 5,700 scientists signed a letter, organized by the Union of Concerned Scientists, urging the Senate to consider the scientific principles of species conservation, in light of the amendments. To learn more about why scientists are worried, follow the links on the left.
One controversial bill is H.R. 3824, sponsored by Richard Pombo (R-CA),the chairman of the House Resources Committee. (Read more about Rep. Pombo and his work on the ESA here.) This bill was passed in the House last September and referred to the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works. The Senate is expected to introduce its own ESA legislation later this year, the Associated Press reported.
Want more information on the ESA? Start with this report: The Endangered Species Act: A Primer, by Pamela Baldwin.