Migratory Bird Treaty Act Threat Sign-on Letter

As we celebrate the 100^th anniversary of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) this year, our core bird protection law is facing its most serious threat in a century of existence. Last month, the Trump administration released a legal opinion that it now interprets MBTA to only cover hunting and will no longer enforce incidental take under the Act, meaning all industrial activities will be exempt from the law. There are similar efforts in Congress to amend the MBTA to end liability for industrial activity for good.

Our Chapter recently signed onto this letter urging Congress to defend the MBTA.

Other Resources on this Issue:

• Audubon MBTA Fact Sheet
• a bipartisan letter from 17 former DOI officials opposing the administration’s legal opinion.