Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Interior and Commerce published final regulations amending certain aspects of the existing Section 7 consultation regulations under the ESA. The new regulations modify the existing regulations by specifying categories of project-specific actions which do not require consultation with permitting federal agencies. The new regulations are aimed at streamlining the permitting process and are supported by the National Marine Fisheries Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It is unknown how the new administration might further amend the new regulations.
To review the new regulations click here: http://www.doi.gov/initiatives/ESA_Section7FR.pdf
