Republicans block Dem amendments to ESA bill

Republicans on the House Rules Committee on Monday blocked amendments to legislation up for debate this week that would overhaul the Endangered Species Act.

The panel — considered deeply influenced by leadership — did not make any amendments in order for debate when the legislation reaches the floor sometimes this week.

“ESA Amendments Act,” H.R. 1897, from Natural Resources Chair Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.), would give greater weight to the economic impacts of listing animals as plants as endangered. The bill would also limit environmental group litigation.

Democrats introduced several amendments to the bill, including measures pushing back on an administration panel — dubbed the “God Squad” — deciding to exempt Gulf oil drilling from ESA requirements.