Loggerhead Turtle Reclassification

In 2010, NOAA’s began considering a Proposed Rule to substantially alter the current status and treatment of loggerhead sea turtles under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).  SSA is encouraging NOAA to defer consideration of substantive aspects of the Proposed Rule until after ongoing aerial survey research and data can be incorporated into a much  needed revision of the loggerhead population assessment. Congressmen Ortiz and Jones kindly invited a  Representative of SSA to participate in their meeting with NOAA officials and sent a follow-up letter to NOAA Administrator  Jane Lubchenco further pressing their position.  In addition, SSA has prepared extensive formal public comments on the Proposed Rule.