The MONARCH Act of 2025 is a federal effort to save western monarch butterflies from extinction. The western monarch population has collapsed by over 99% in the last 30 years and now numbers fewer than 10,000 butterflies—dangerously close to the point of no return. Scientists warn that without immediate action, these butterflies could disappear entirely within the next 20 years.

The bill creates two main funding mechanisms to address this crisis. First, it establishes a $12.5 million annual grant program (running through 2030) that provides money to states, tribes, nonprofits, and research institutions for conservation projects. These projects focus on restoring milkweed plants (which monarch caterpillars eat), protecting overwintering sites where monarchs gather in California, and preserving breeding habitats across the western states. Second, the bill allocates another $12.5 million annually to implement an existing conservation plan developed by western wildlife agencies.

Who benefits and how: Local governments, tribal nations, nonprofits, and universities in western states can apply for grants to do hands-on conservation work. Federal agencies can participate as partners but cannot lead projects. All funded projects must report their results publicly so taxpayers can see what's working. The bill also requires the federal government to submit yearly progress reports to Congress. By restoring habitat and protecting key areas, these efforts aim to reverse the monarch decline while also helping other pollinator species that support agriculture and natural ecosystems.