Number: RL34573
Title: Does the Endangered Species Act (ESA) Listing Provide More Protection of the Polar Bear?
Authors: Kristina Alexander, American Law Division 
Abstract: On May 15, 2008, the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) listed the polar bear as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Some have questioned the need to use the ESA to protect the bear, citing other treaties, statutes, and regulations that protect polar bears, primarily the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). This report discusses what additional protections are provided by the ESA listing that were not available before.
Pages: 11
Date: October 16, 2008