Topline:
A new bill proposed by Governor Newsom’s administration would further protect Joshua trees by prohibiting anyone from removing or importing the trees without a state permit.
The proposal, called the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Act,would also require the state to work with Native American tribes to create a conservation plan for the tree by 2024.
Why it matters:
The proposal comes following the California’s Fish and Game Commission’s decision yesterday to postpone designating the native western tree as an endangered species. As a candidate for the state’s endangered species list since 2020, they are currently protected, but still await a permanent decision from the commission.
The bill says that widespread distribution of the tree in urban and rural communities poses a problem for conservation efforts and permit issues.
Why now:
The commission delayed their choice on Wednesday, a day after Newsom’s administration introduced the bill publicly.
The backstory:
The Center for Biological Diversity filed a petition back in 2019to list the tree as an endangered species, arguing that it needs to be protected from climate change.
What’s next:
The commission is awaiting to see if the bill will become into law before making a decision. The bill is expected to go through legislative committee hearings in the coming months.
Go deeper: The Tree That Won’t Die
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