AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Feb 18, 2025. Analysis updated: Sep 17, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- The bill amends the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to prohibit the federal government from distinguishing between naturally propagated (wild) and artificially propagated animals when making ESA determinations.
- These determinations include decisions about designating endangered species, threatened species, and critical habitats.
- The bill applies to all endangered or threatened species regardless of when they were listed.
- The bill requires the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service to authorize artificial propagation of animals as a mitigation option when mitigation is required under the ESA.
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- The documented effect is that federal agencies would be required to treat artificially propagated animals identically to wild animals in all ESA determinations.
- Artificial propagation becomes an authorized mitigation tool that agencies must consider when ESA mitigation is required.
- No specific winners, losers, or quantified impacts are established in the official summary.
- The summary does not establish whether this will increase, decrease, or have uncertain effects on species conservation outcomes.
03 — The Path
Now what?
- As of September 15, 2026, the bill was ordered to be reported in the nature of a substitute by a committee vote of 21–17.
- A committee consideration and mark-up session was held on September 15, 2026.
- The bill was introduced in the House on January 3, 2025, and referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
Legislative History
Actions.
- Sep 15, 2026 — Ordered to be Reported in the Nature of a Substitute by the Yeas and Nays: 21 - 17.
- Sep 15, 2026 — Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
- Jan 3, 2025 — Referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.
- Jan 3, 2025 — Introduced in House