"House Measure Would Change Endangered Law"

[GreenPartyVoter]

WASHINGTON (AP) - The House Resources Committee voted Wednesday to make practicality a standard in designating areas off-limits to most development under the Endangered Species Act.

Supporters said the proposed changes would improve how endangered species and their critical habitats are designated. Environmentalists and some Democrats protested they would render key portions of the landmark law virtually meaningless.

"These aren't minor tweaks we're talking about," said Marty Hayden, legislative director of Earthjustice. "These two bills are trying to cut holes in that safety net large enough that an elephant could fall through."

One bill, by Rep. Dennis Cardoza, D-Calif., would change how critical habitats necessary for the survival of a species are designated. Before such a designation could be made, officials would have to determine that it is "practicable." Much development is prohibited on areas designated as critical habitat.

http://apnews1.iwon.com/article/20040721/D83VE0702.html