Migratory Bird Protection Act of 2025

This bill updates the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to clearly cover accidental harm to migratory birds. It directs the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to set up permits (including general permits) so some accidental impacts can be allowed with conditions. Until new rules are in place for a given industry, the agency must keep enforcing its 2021 guidance. Before fines are issued, people get notice and a chance to be heard. Fines must fit the seriousness of the violation and consider good-faith efforts, and can be reduced in special cases.

The bill lets the agency charge fees to run the permit program and to help conserve bird species that are affected or are of conservation concern. It creates a Migratory Bird Recovery Fund to hold these fees, certain penalty funds, any appropriated money, and donations. It also authorizes $10 million each year, requires a report to Congress every five years on bird status and program impacts, and sets up a research program to monitor bird populations, understand threats, and test ways to reduce harm. Unpermitted accidental harm can bring civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation, and reckless or grossly negligent conduct faces tougher penalties under existing law.

Key points

• Who is affected: People and businesses whose activities may accidentally harm migratory birds or their nests or eggs.
• What changes: Clear ban on unpermitted accidental harm; new permit system and fees; a recovery fund; civil penalties; regular reports; and a research program to improve protections .
• When: Funding begins after enactment; reports are due five years after enactment and then every five years; current 2021 guidance remains in force until new rules are issued for each industry .