# What This Bill Does

Congress is trying to block a new rule that would protect the dunes sagebrush lizard as an endangered species. The Fish and Wildlife Service created this rule in May 2024, and this bill would essentially cancel it, making the protection disappear completely.

# Who This Affects and Why It Matters

The dunes sagebrush lizard is a small reptile found primarily in parts of New Mexico and Texas. If the endangered species protection stays in place, it would restrict certain activities in areas where the lizard lives—mainly oil and gas drilling, grazing, and other land development. If this bill passes and kills the protection, companies would have more freedom to develop these lands without worrying about harming the lizard's habitat. Conservationists argue the lizard needs protection because its population is declining, while energy and ranching interests say the restrictions are too burdensome on their businesses.

# The Bottom Line

This is essentially a fight between environmental protection and economic development. If you care about preserving wildlife species from extinction, you'd likely oppose this bill. If you work in or support the oil, gas, or ranching industries in the Southwest, you'd probably support it because it removes regulatory obstacles. For most Americans, the practical impact is indirect—it's really about whether we as a country prioritize protecting a small, lesser-known lizard species or prioritize economic activity in those regions. The bill uses a special congressional process that allows lawmakers to overturn government agency decisions relatively quickly.

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 the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard".