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Smith Introduces Sound Science Endangered Species Bill by CBB Staff Columbia Basin Bulletin - January 23, 2004

On the opening day of the second session of the 108th Congress, Sen. Gordon Smith, R-Ore., introduced the Sound Science for Endangered Species Planning Act (S. 2009) which would require greater weight be given to field-tested and scientifically reviewed data when making decisions under the Endangered Species Act.

"Decisions based on bad science can take a tremendous toll on people who make their living from the land," Smith said. "Just as importantly, the environment doesn't benefit from flawed policies. Preventing these mistakes is something everyone can support."

Specifically, S. 2009 includes provisions that would:

• Require the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Commerce to give greater weight to scientific or commercial data that is empirical or has been field-tested or peer-reviewed when making decisions under the ESA
• Establish a mandatory independent scientific review requirement for all ESA listing and delisting proposals as well as biological opinions to ensure the use of sound science and provide a mechanism for resolving disputes during the rulemaking process
• Require the Secretary of the Interior to solicit and obtain data from stakeholders to assist in developing recovery plans, including recovery goals
• Require the Secretary to solicit recommendations from the National Academy of Sciences in order to maintain a list of qualified reviewers.