Sen. Rick Scott, Rep. Byron Donalds Push Bill to Expedite State Wildlife Conservation Efforts

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Rick Scott recently introduced the Make State Wildlife Action Plan Efficient (SWAPs)Act to require the U.S. Department of the Interior to act on state conservation efforts within 180 days of submission.

States develop and submit annual State Wildlife Action Plans (SWAPs) to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), detailing which non-game species require state intervention so they do not become threatened or endangered. Currently, there is no deadline for the federal government to approve SWAPs, forcing states to wait a year or longer to receive funding for critical conservation needs.

In December 2025, Congressman Byron Donalds' companion legislation passed the House of Representatives.

Senator Rick Scott said, "Florida's natural beauty, including its wildlife, is worth protecting. It is unacceptable that federal bureaucracy stalls critical wildlife funding year after year, leaving Florida's wildlife and our environment vulnerable. The American people deserve prompt and efficient use of their tax dollars. I'm glad to join Congressman Donalds to fast-track this funding and protect Florida's wildlife."

Congressman Byron Donalds said, "When states do the work to protect wildlife, Washington should do its part by reviewing their plans on time. Giving agencies 180 days to act will help cut through red tape and ensure states can keep protecting the wildlife and natural resources their communities depend on. I am grateful to Senator Scott for joining this effort to get the bill across the finish line."

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