Wildlife Crossings Program Reauthorization Act of 2025
- Sponsor
- Sen. Alsobrooks, Angela D. [D-MD]
- Committees
- Environment and Public Works Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Dec 17, 2025
Bottom line
The bill expands and enhances federal support for projects that reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and improve habitat connectivity, with a focus on equity and accessibility for underserved communities.
What it actually does
This bill reauthorizes the federal wildlife crossings program, making it a permanent initiative rather than a pilot. It authorizes $100 million annually for five fiscal years, increases the federal share for projects in small, rural, and disadvantaged communities to 90% (with a potential 100% waiver), and provides dedicated technical assistance for Tribal entities to access program funding.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that making the wildlife crossings program permanent and increasing its funding will significantly improve public safety by reducing dangerous wildlife-vehicle collisions, protect biodiversity by enhancing habitat connectivity, and provide economic benefits through infrastructure development. They also contend that the provisions for small, rural, disadvantaged, and Tribal communities address historical inequities and ensure these vital projects can be implemented where they are most needed.
Opponents contend
Critics may raise concerns about the overall increase in federal spending, particularly from the Highway Trust Fund, and whether these funds could be better allocated to other transportation priorities. Some might also argue that increasing the federal share to 90% or 100% could reduce local financial commitment and ownership of projects, potentially leading to less efficient resource allocation.
The bill is very short and clearly written, making it highly accessible for any reader to understand its core provisions and implications within a few minutes.
Section 2(a)
Reauthorization and Funding for Wildlife Crossings Program
This provision reauthorizes the wildlife crossings program and allocates $100,000,000 annually from the Highway Trust Fund (excluding the Mass Transit Account) for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2031. These funds are specified to be available until expended, providing consistent and long-term financial support for projects aimed at reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions and improving habitat connectivity.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that consistent, dedicated funding is crucial for the successful planning and implementation of wildlife crossing projects, which have proven effective in enhancing safety and protecting ecological systems. They contend that the reauthorization ensures continuity for a vital program.
Critics contend
Some critics may argue that while the program has merits, the authorized funding level represents a significant federal expenditure that could potentially strain the Highway Trust Fund or divert resources from other pressing transportation infrastructure needs.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the recognized benefits of wildlife crossings with the need for fiscal prudence and prioritization within federal transportation budgets.
Section 2(b)(1)(A) and (B)
Permanent Program Status (Removal of 'Pilot' Designation)
This section amends existing law (Section 171 of title 23, United States Code) by removing the word 'pilot' wherever it appears in relation to the wildlife crossings program. This change formally transitions the program from an experimental or temporary 'pilot' initiative to a permanent, established federal program, signaling long-term commitment and stability.
Section 2(b)(1)(D), inserting subsection (h)
Enhanced Federal Share for Small, Rural, and Disadvantaged Communities
This provision establishes a higher federal cost share for grants under the wildlife crossings program when projects benefit small, rural, or disadvantaged communities. The federal share is set at 90 percent, and the Secretary of Transportation is granted authority to increase this to 100 percent if an eligible entity demonstrates an inability to pay or would face significant financial hardship in covering the non-federal share.
Section 2(b)(1)(D), inserting subsection (i)
Tribal Technical Assistance
This provision authorizes the Secretary of Transportation to use up to 0.5 percent of the program's annual funding to provide technical assistance specifically to eligible Tribal entities. The goal is to improve their ability to efficiently and expeditiously access funding for wildlife crossing projects, including assistance with applications, technical guidance, and reducing the time between project selection and fund obligation.
This provision allows the Secretary of Transportation to retain up to 0.5 percent of the amounts made available for the wildlife crossings program each fiscal year. These retained funds are to be used for administrative purposes, specifically for reviewing grant applications, obligating and administering grant awards, and ensuring compliance with related requirements under sections 172 and 144(b)(6) and (i)(3) of title 23.
Section 2(b)(1)(D), inserting subsection (j)
Why it matters:This is standard legislative practice for allocating administrative overhead. It's a technical detail necessary for program operation rather than a core policy change, so it's placed in a less prominent position.
Case for: Supporters argue that allocating a small percentage for administrative costs is essential for the efficient and effective management of a federal grant program, ensuring proper review, oversight, and compliance.
Case against: Critics might contend that any funds diverted for administrative purposes, no matter how small, reduce the total amount directly available for actual wildlife crossing projects, potentially slowing down the program's physical impact.
Estimated impact: Up to $500,000 per year (0.5% of the $100,000,000 annual authorization) would be allocated for administrative costs.