Statement of Administration Policy: S.J. Res. 24 - Providing for Congressional Disapproval Under Chapter 8 of Title 5, United States Code, of the Rule Submitted by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service Relating to "Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Endangered Species Status for Northern Long-Eared Bat"

STATEMENT OF ADMINISTRATION POLICY

(Senate)
(Sen. Mullin, R-OK, and 14 cosponsors)

The Administration strongly opposes passage of S.J. Res. 24, a joint resolution to disapprove of a final rule issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) that protects the northern long-eared bat from extinction. By overturning a science-based rulemaking that follows the requirements of the law, S.J. Res 24 undermines the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

White-nose syndrome has spread across approximately 79 percent of the northern long-eared bat's entire range and is expected to affect 100 percent of the species' range by the end of the decade. Data indicate white-nose syndrome has caused estimated declines of 97 to 100 percent in affected northern long-eared bat populations. Following a rigorous review of the best available scientific and commercial information regarding the past, present, and future threats, as well as ongoing conservation efforts, the USFWS listed the northern long-eared bat as an endangered species under the ESA. The species was previously listed as a threatened species.

Almost every species that has been listed under the ESA since its bipartisan passage 50 years ago is still with us today. Bats are critical to healthy, functioning ecosystems and contribute at least $3 billion annually to the U.S. agriculture economy through pest control and pollination. Overturning this rule would risk extinction of a species. Overturning protections for the northern long-eared bat that are rooted in science would undermine America's proud wildlife conservation traditions and risk extinction of the species.

For these reasons, if Congress were to pass S.J. Res. 24, the President would veto it.