REP. Boebert Introduces Local DATA for Better Conservation ACT

June 8, 2026 Press Release Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Lauren Boebert announced the introduction of the Local Data for Better Conservation Act, the House companion to S. 4146 led by Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY). The legislation amends the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to require federal officials to accept and incorporate high-quality data collected by state wildlife agencies when making listing and delisting determinations for endangered and threatened species. “States are on the front lines of wildlife management and possess the most current, localized data on species populations,” said Rep. Boebert . “For too long, federal bureaucrats at the Department of the Interior have had the discretion to cherry-pick or outright ignore state-collected science to advance political agendas. This bill ensures that real, boots-on-the-ground data from state experts drives decisions and will lead to smarter, more effective conservation that actually works for both wildlife and the communities that live alongside it.” Background: Currently, federal listing decisions under the ESA often overlook or selectively use the extensive species data gathered by state agencies. Because the Department of the Interior can choose whether to accept or reject this information, the process has been vulnerable to manipulation. The Local Data for Better Conservation Act closes this loophole by mandating the incorporation of credible state data, promoting transparency, federalism, and better conservation outcomes. House Cosponsors: Rep. Jeff Crank (CO-05), Rep. Gabe Evans (CO-08), Rep. Mike Kennedy (UT-03), Rep. Jeff Hurd (CO-03), and Rep. Troy Downing (MT-02) Senate Cosponsors: Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY), Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Sen. Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL), Sen. Katie Britt (R-AL), and Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK). The bill is supported by the Wyoming Game & Fish Department and the National Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies. Read the full bill text HERE . Issues : Energy and Natural Resources Agriculture Standing up for Local Communities