WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — House lawmakers are making moves in the fight against farm predators, passing the Pet and Livestock Protection Act, which would delist the gray wolf under the Endangered Species Act.
Gray wolves have been on the endangered species list on and off since 1974, and the Pubic Lands Council estimates their population has grown 300 percent over the last 50 years. They were briefly delisted in 2020, but a federal court overturned that rule in 2022.
Leaders from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) say restoring the 2020 rule would give certainty back to cattle producers, warning that wolves are causing them financial and emotional losses.
The bill now moves on to the Senate for consideration.
Related Stories
A look at the legislative year ahead as lawmakers return to Washington with a slate of trade concerns to tackle in 2026—from new Chinese tariffs on beef imports to the USMCA review this summer.
Farmer Bridge Assistance payments provide immediate balance-sheet support heading into 2026, but remain a short-term bridge rather than a substitute for long-term market recovery.
As markets anticipate a return to normal trading following the New Year’s holiday, the possibility of the southern border re-opening to cattle is capturing much attention.
A narrower Section 1071 rule could reduce regulatory pressure on ag lenders while keeping credit available in rural communities.
Rising production underscores the importance of marketing discipline and margin protection as milk supplies expand.
