We are very frustrated that this important piece of legislation has been stalled. S. 1180, for the first time, recognizes the importance of private and state stewardship to species conservation, and is a successful attempt to maintain the integrity of the principles of the Act while improving its implementation. It will make the ESA more workable and understandable. It would strengthen the role of the states and draw on their talents and resources in conserving species, and it would provide increased certainty and assistance for landowners and water users. At the same time, it would enhance the Act's ability to protect declining species and restore them and their habitat to a healthy status.
States are also critical to planning the recovery of species.
We urge you to protect each Governor's page 2 ability to play this leadership role in species conservation efforts and recovery planning. We urge you to personally work on the logjam preventing further movement of S. 1180, and not lose this opportunity to improve the Endangered Species Act.