Bipartisan Bill to Help Communities Support Bird Habitat Clears House Committee

H.R. 3276, the Local Communities and Bird Habitat Stewardship Act, was introduced by Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Ben Cline (R-VA). It addresses an important reality of bird conservation: birds depend on healthy habitat not only in wild spaces, but also in the cities, towns, and working landscapes they encounter throughout their annual journeys. 

“Birds rely on healthy habitat not only in undeveloped regions, but in the places where people live, work, and recreate,” said Felice Stadler, vice president of government affairs at the National Audubon Society. “North American bird populations have plunged by nearly 30 percent since 1970, and communities need more tools to conserve and restore the habitat birds depend on throughout their annual journeys. The Local Communities & Bird Habitat Stewardship Act would help meet that need while creating healthier, more resilient neighborhoods.” 

“Birds are an essential part of our ecosystems and our everyday lives, and every community has a role to play in protecting them,” said Dingell. “Since 1970, bird populations in North America have declined by a third and species are disappearing.  Today’s passage of the Local Communities and Bird Habitat Stewardship Act by the House Natural Resources Committee is an important step toward giving cities, towns, and local partners the tools they need to restore habitat, reduce hazards to birds, and engage more people in conservation. I am grateful to Audubon for its partnership as we work to get this bill passed into law.” 

“Birds play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, and responsible conservation efforts can help protect migratory pathways while reducing the risk of avian diseases,” said Cline. “These initiatives are most effective when led by local communities and municipal leaders who understand the unique needs of their regions. I am pleased that this legislation advanced through the House Committee on Natural Resources. As this measure moves forward, we must ensure that any federal support remains targeted, transparent, and accountable to the taxpayers who fund it.”  

The Local Communities and Bird Habitat Stewardship Act supports communities creating and enhancing habitat through voluntary conservation projects that benefit both birds and people. It would provide funding for local partners (from municipalities to community groups) to restore green space, improve habitat connectivity, and reduce physical threats to birds.  

The bill now moves to consideration by the full House of Representatives.