Hill Country Chronicle

Representatives Chip Roy and August Pfluger have introduced the Exotic Hoofstock Reform Act, aiming to protect exotic game ranches in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and beyond, from potential overregulation by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The legislation intends to delist several non-native hoofstock species from the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Congressman Roy highlighted the effectiveness of Texas game ranches in preserving exotic species compared to the federal government's efforts. He stated, "The government needs to stop regulating privately owned, foreign species and allow our great ranchers to do what they do best and preserve wildlife in ways they see fit."

Congressman Pfluger expressed confidence in local conservation efforts over broader mandates, saying, “Texans know Texas best, and I have full confidence in the effectiveness of local conservation efforts over one-size-fits-all mandates that do not account for the region’s unique needs."

The bill seeks to remove species like the Barasingha, Red Lechwe, Arabian Oryx, and others from the ESA to prevent disruption to game ranch operations. According to the representatives, this action is necessary due to pressure from radical animal rights groups that could impact the industry's conservation contributions.

The Exotic Hoofstock Reform Act aims to ensure that game ranches continue their role in species preservation and conservation efforts by delisting these species from federal regulation. The bill addresses potential threats to these operations, providing reassurance to ranchers that they can proceed without fear of closing a regulatory loophole.