The feds no longer protect endangered species habitat. States say they can’t pick up the slack.

The Trump administration has rolled back protections for habitats crucial to endangered species, shifting the responsibility to states, which many experts argue lack the resources and expertise to safeguard these areas effectively. This move, finalized earlier this month, is part of a broader change to the Endangered Species Act. The decision raises significant concerns about the future of biodiversity conservation, as state governments may not have the funding or legal authority to step up and fulfill the federal government's former role.