Opinion ID: 1205809
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Preemption by Federal and State Law

Text: Appellants assert the ordinance is preempted by the Federal Endangered Species Act, (FESA) 16 U.S.C. §§ 1531 et seq. and the S.C. Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act, S.C.Code Ann. §§ 50-15-10 et seq. (1992). To determine whether the ordinance has been preempted by Federal or State law, we must determine whether there is a conflict between the ordinance and the statutes and whether the ordinance creates any obstacle to the fulfillment of Federal or State objectives. Gibbons v. Ogden, 22 U.S. (9 Wheat) 1, 6 L.Ed. 23 (1824). The circuit court found no conflict nor obstacles created by the ordinance that would pose any threat to wolves as an endangered species. The stated purpose of FESA is to preserve the habitat of endangered species and provide a program for their conservation. The stated purpose of the local ordinance is to regulate the care and control of animals within the town limits to protect the safety, health and general welfare of the community. Under the FESA a permit can be obtained to possess endangered animals. The ordinance does not run contrary to the permitting of animals, but regulates the conditions under which certain animals can be kept in the town. Furthermore, the FESA provides that any state law respecting taking of endangered species may be more restrictive than federal exemptions or permits. 16 U.S.C.A. § 1535(f) (1985). Appellants contend the Town ordinance is likewise inconsistent with the State Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act, § 50-15-10, which parallels FESA. We disagree for the above stated reasoning.