Save The E.S.A.

This is Senator Obama's response to my email expressing my concerns about the "Extinction" of The Endangered Species Act.

Dear Brian:

Thank you for contacting me about the Endangered Species Act. I appreciate knowing your views on this issue.

The goal of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 is to conserve and protect both the species that are threatened or in danger of extinction and the ecosystems upon which they depend. It currently protects more than 1,200 animal and plant species, of which approximately 25 are found in Illinois. The law can become controversial, however, when projects that may conflict with the ecosystem of species listed as threatened or endangered are proposed in a particular area.

I strongly support the goals of the Endangered Species Act, which has paved the way for a number of species - - such as the bald eagle - - to return from the brink of extinction. However, during the past 30 years the Endangered Species Act has not always worked perfectly. With all of its accomplishments, we have learned not only what works, but also what is ineffective. Consequently, the Endangered Species Act needs to be updated and improved. And that means moving past rigid ideological positions so that we can reach consensus on the right solutions.

As a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, which has jurisdiction over the Endangered Species Act, I will closely consider and evaluate all good-faith proposals to improve the implementation of this law - - within the scope of ensuring that the accomplishments of this law are not undermined. You can be sure, therefore, that your comments will weigh heavily in my evaluations.

Again, thank you for contacting me about the Endangered Species Act. Please feel free to stay in touch on this or any other important matter.

Sincerely,

Barack Obama
United States Senator

Save The E.S.A.