ESA guidance narrows 'harm' definition, easing incidental killings of imperiled wildlife

Interior Department guidance tied to a new Endangered Species Act rule narrows the definition of 'harm' to imperiled wildlife, potentially allowing incidental killings without permits. Environmentalists warn the move could accelerate extinctions and weaken habitat protections, while some companies may still seek permits to shield against future policy shifts. The ESA has historically helped recover key species, though political changes have repeatedly reshaped its enforcement.