Bill > HR3188

This bill amends the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to establish a comprehensive framework for managing the incidental take (unintentional killing or harming) of migratory birds. The legislation creates a new permitting system that allows industries to legally incidentally take migratory birds under certain conditions, with civil penalties of up to $10,000 for violations. The bill establishes a new "Migratory Bird Recovery Fund" in the Treasury, funded through permit fees, penalties, appropriations, and donations, which will support bird conservation efforts. The Secretary of the Interior (through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) is directed to develop regulations for issuing permits, with considerations for the severity of violations and the good faith of entities. The bill also mandates a research program to monitor bird populations, understand environmental stressors, and develop mitigation measures. Additionally, the legislation requires the Secretary to submit a report to Congress every five years detailing the conservation status of migratory birds, the impacts of authorized activities, and progress in implementing the new provisions. The overall goal is to provide a balanced approach that allows economic activities while promoting the protection and conservation of migratory bird populations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3188/all-info