Human-Wildlife Conflict Reduction Act of 2026
- Sponsor
- Sen. Schiff, Adam B. [D-CA]
- Committees
- Environment and Public Works Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Aug 4, 2026
Bottom line
The bill creates a new federal program to promote and fund nonlethal approaches to manage human-wildlife conflicts, with a focus on protecting livestock and agricultural interests.
What it actually does
This bill establishes the "Human-Wildlife Conflict Reduction Program" within the Department of Agriculture, led by the Secretary of Agriculture. The program aims to develop and implement nonlethal strategies to reduce conflicts between humans and wildlife, particularly focusing on livestock depredation by predators and harms to human infrastructure or agriculture. It also subsumes the existing Nonlethal Initiative of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill provides a more humane and sustainable approach to wildlife management by prioritizing nonlethal methods. They contend it will reduce economic losses for agricultural producers due to depredation while promoting coexistence with wildlife, aligning with modern conservation ethics and public demand for non-lethal solutions.
Opponents contend
Critics might argue that while nonlethal methods have their place, they may not always be sufficient or cost-effective in all situations, especially with highly adaptable or numerous predator species. Some may also express concerns about the potential for increased administrative burden or the effectiveness of a purely nonlethal approach in severe conflict zones.
The bill is very short and clear, making it easy for any interested reader to understand its core provisions quickly.
Section 2, adding Section 4(a) to the Act of March 2, 1931
Creation of the Human-Wildlife Conflict Reduction Program
This provision mandates the Secretary of Agriculture to create a new program focused on reducing conflicts between humans and wildlife, and between livestock and wildlife, using only nonlethal strategies. It specifically prioritizes reducing livestock depredation, conflicts with predator species, and damage to human infrastructure or agriculture. The existing APHIS Nonlethal Initiative will be integrated into this new program.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this establishes a dedicated, federally-backed effort to address human-wildlife conflicts with a modern, humane, and ecologically sound approach, moving away from reliance on lethal control. It provides a clear mandate and focus for nonlethal solutions.
Critics contend
Some might argue that subsuming an existing initiative into a new program could lead to temporary disruption or administrative inefficiencies during the transition, potentially delaying the delivery of services.
Tradeoffs
The tension lies in balancing the immediate need for effective conflict resolution with the long-term goal of promoting nonlethal methods, which may require different skill sets and resources than traditional lethal control.
Section 2, adding Section 4(b) and (c) to the Act of March 2, 1931
Advancing Nonlethal Strategies and Providing Support
This part of the bill directs the Secretary to conduct research and development to evaluate existing nonlethal strategies and create new ones for reducing human-wildlife conflict and protecting livestock. It also authorizes the Secretary to provide direct assistance through projects to landowners, agricultural producers, Indian Tribes, and nonprofit organizations to implement these nonlethal strategies on the ground.
Section 2, adding Section 4(d) and (e) to the Act of March 2, 1931
Dissemination of Knowledge and State Collaboration
This section requires the Secretary to share best practices for nonlethal strategies with various stakeholders, including agricultural producers, landowners, Indian Tribes, nonprofits, and federal/state agencies. It also allows for providing training and supporting demonstration projects to test strategies locally. Furthermore, the program will assist States, upon request, in developing or updating their own plans for implementing nonlethal strategies.
Section 2, adding Section 4(g) to the Act of March 2, 1931
Funding for the Program
This provision authorizes the appropriation of $20,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 through 2031 to carry out the Human-Wildlife Conflict Reduction Program. It specifies that no more than 10 percent of these funds per fiscal year can be used for research activities under the program.