Bill > HR598

This bill, known as the Forest Information Reform Act (FIR Act), amends two existing laws to limit when federal land management agencies (the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management) must restart consultation processes related to endangered species. Specifically, the bill prevents the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior from being required to reinitiate consultation on their land management or land use plans under two specific circumstances: first, when a new species is listed as endangered or critical habitat is designated, and second, when new information emerges about potential effects on endangered species that were not previously considered. The Endangered Species Act and associated regulations currently require such consultations when significant changes occur, but this bill would provide more flexibility for land management agencies by removing the mandatory consultation requirement in these scenarios. By reducing potential administrative burdens, the bill aims to streamline land management planning processes while still maintaining environmental protections.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/598/all-info