View Rule

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) proposes deregulatory actions in migratory bird and eagle permitting. We propose to expand upon recent successful efforts to leverage technology in support of innovative approaches to permitting using general permits and regulatory authorizations. We propose to create a general permit option for 75 percent of existing migratory bird and eagle-specific permits administered, primarily permits that authorize possession such as exhibition and breeding. We also propose to replace the current paper system with an electronic registration system for the eight existing depredation and control orders that authorize take of depredating, overabundant, or otherwise injurious birds. We also propose deregulatory changes to expand current regulatory authorizations, eliminate situations where previously two Federal permits were required for the same or similar actions, reduce reporting requirements, and extend permit tenure. Additional clarifying changes are proposed to existing regulations for commercial use of feathers, falconry, and depredation.