Bill > HB441

This bill amends the Wild Resource Conservation Act to expand protections and management efforts for wild native terrestrial invertebrates (land-dwelling animals without backbones, such as insects, spiders, and other small creatures). The bill requires the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to conduct investigations into these invertebrates, including studying their populations, habitats, and biological characteristics. The department must develop a classification system with at least two categories: endangered (species at risk of extinction) and threatened (species likely to become endangered). The bill mandates that the department create regulations within two years, involving public input and hearings, to manage and protect these invertebrates. This includes establishing guidelines for their conservation, coordinating with other agencies, and developing practices to mitigate risks to invertebrate biodiversity. The department will also be authorized to create and maintain a list of endangered and threatened invertebrate species, with the ability to update the list as environmental conditions change. This legislation aims to recognize the ecological importance of native terrestrial invertebrates and ensure their preservation and management in Pennsylvania.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=441