Migratory Bird Protection Act of 2024
If enacted, this bill would allow individuals and entities to apply for permits for incidental take, which could substantially alter the legal landscape surrounding the conservation of migratory birds. The Secretary of the Interior would be empowered to establish regulations and impose civil penalties for unpermitted incidental takes, with fines of up to $10,000 for violations. It emphasizes balancing human activity and wildlife protection, potentially leading to increased instances where migratory birds may be incidentally harmed during lawful activities.
House Bill 9971, known as the Migratory Bird Protection Act of 2024, seeks to amend the Migratory Bird Treaty Act by affirming that the prohibition on the unauthorized take or killing of migratory birds includes incidental take. The bill directs the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to authorize incidental take under specific regulations, signaling a significant shift in how migratory bird protection is administered in the U.S. This includes establishing a regulatory framework for permitting incidental take, which has historically been a contentious issue in wildlife management and conservation.
The bill has sparked debate among environmentalists, wildlife advocates, and industry stakeholders. Proponents argue that providing a permitting process for incidental take could enhance compliance and offer clarity to industries such as agriculture and development that may unintentionally harm birds. Conversely, critics worry this could open the floodgates for more incidental takes, undermining existing protections. This tension highlights the difficulties in creating policies that adequately safeguard wildlife while allowing for human development and activities.