Lummis Statement on USFWS Appeal Withdrawal

Statement

U.S. Representative Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) released the following statement after the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) withdrew its appeal of a 2010 Federal District Court ruling in Wyoming that struck down the Service's disapproval of the State of Wyoming's gray wolf management plan:

"Today's decision by the USFWS is a positive step. Although I am pleased with the Administration's announcement, I strongly believe that full nation-wide delisting of the gray wolf should be the Administration's priority. In the meantime, Governor Mead's negotiations provide the most promising way forward in finding an agreement that will bring relief to Wyoming's big game herds, ranchers and farmers.

"Today's announcement does not end all litigation affecting Wyoming's wolf management plan or the problems caused by the flawed application of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). In addition to the Governor's capable leadership on the issue, meaningful discussions about comprehensive reform of the ESA must be on the table.

"The ESA has resulted in billions of taxpayer dollars spent, is a magnet for environmental lawsuits and has only resulted in the recovery of 1% of listed species over 38 years. Tomorrow, the USFWS will ask my Appropriations subcommittee for millions more in taxpayer dollars to pay for the management of ESA. I look forward to discussing the USFWS's funding request along with the desperate need for the comprehensive overhaul of the ESA."

Source