AB 1722 (2026): Endangered Species Self-Defense Exception
AB 1722 (2026): Endangered Species Self-Defense Exception
Assembly bill that would create a self-defense exception to the California Endangered Species Act's prohibition on taking protected species.
What the Bill Would Do
AB 1722 would amend the California Endangered Species Act (Fish and Game Code) by adding Section 2080.8 to create an explicit exception allowing the take of an endangered or threatened species when necessary for self-defense. Currently, the act prohibits the take of any listed species without specific authorization.
Sponsors
The bill was authored by Assembly Member Heather Hadwick (R).
Current Status
Introduced on February 5, 2026. The bill was referred to the Committees on Water, Parks, and Wildlife and Judiciary. On March 19, 2026, author's amendments were adopted and the bill was re-referred to the Committee on Water, Parks, and Wildlife on March 23, 2026. The bill remains active in committee.
Context
This bill sits at the intersection of wildlife conservation and self-defense rights. While federal law under the Endangered Species Act provides certain self-defense exceptions, California's state law does not explicitly address the scenario. The bill is relevant to residents in areas where encounters with endangered predators (such as mountain lions) may occur. Mountain lion encounters have increased in California as development expands into wildlife habitat.