hold on there's just too much going on in Congress lmao...
Mandates new regional plans for managing double-crested cormorant populations.
Introduced by Mr. Walberg.
Introduced in House, referred to committee.
This bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to create specific regional plans for managing double-crested cormorants, including identifying who can 'take' (meaning to harass, hunt, capture, or kill) them and when, while ensuring their breeding population remains sustainable. Mr. Walberg introduced the bill, and it has been sent to the House Committee on Natural Resources for review, meaning it hasn't been voted on yet.
Introduced Apr 2, 2026
The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on April 2, 2026, and referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources. It must be approved by this committee before it can be considered for a vote by the full House of Representatives. If passed by the House, it would then move to the Senate for their consideration.
This bill would create regional plans that allow more individuals and entities, including state-licensed hunters and private lake/pond managers, to take double-crested cormorants. These plans aim to reduce the bird's impact on fisheries and water quality, which could lead to healthier local fish populations and cleaner water for recreational use. Additionally, the plans intend to protect sensitive plant life and other migratory bird species that may be negatively affected by large cormorant populations.
Supporters Say
Supporters would likely argue this bill is essential for protecting local fish populations, water quality, and other wildlife from the negative impacts of an overabundant cormorant population.
Critics Say
Critics might raise concerns about the potential impact of increased cormorant 'take' on migratory bird protections and the specific methods of control allowed.
This legislation aims to balance wildlife management by allowing control of cormorants where they are deemed overabundant, particularly to protect vulnerable fish and ecosystems. However, some conservation groups might express concerns that increasing the 'take' of a native migratory bird could disrupt ecological balances or lead to unintended consequences for the species' overall population.