Critically Endangered Animals Conservation Act of 2026

Species Recovery and Population Stability: The bill allows for grants that help recover and sustain viable populations of critically endangered species in the wild (Section 3(c)(1)(A)).

Scientific Knowledge Advancement: Funding can be used to develop sound scientific information regarding species' habitats, population trends, and threats to survival (Section 3(c)(1)(C)).

Enhanced Law Enforcement: The act supports training and capacity building for local law enforcement officials to prevent the illegal killing or trade of endangered species (Section 3(c)(2)(D)-(E)).

Community Involvement and Education: Projects can include community outreach, education, and strengthening the ability of local communities to implement conservation programs (Section 3(c)(2)(H)-(I)).

Conflict Resolution: The bill provides for initiatives designed to resolve conflicts between humans and critically endangered species (Section 3(c)(2)(F)).

Restrictions on Captive Breeding: Grant funds may not be used for captive breeding unless it is specifically designed for release into the wild and no other conservation methods are biologically or technically feasible (Section 3(e)).

Ineligibility for Certain Groups: Any wildlife management authority or group that already receives funding for a specific species from certain multinational species conservation funds is ineligible for a grant under this Act for that same species (Section 3(b)(1)(B)).

Requirement for Local Consent: Certain project proposals may require the Secretary to determine that free, prior, and informed consent by indigenous peoples and local communities is necessary for the project's success (Section 3(b)(2)(C)).