The Biden Administration's proposal to list the Monarch Butterfly as a threatened species has sparked criticism from Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller. In a statement, Miller described the move as "the latest example of federal government overreach which cripples agriculture and rural development." He argued that the proposal is not genuinely about protecting butterflies but rather about imposing a "radical agenda" that harms rural America.
Miller expressed concern that this designation would lead to widespread restrictions on activities that might disturb monarch habitats. He warned that such restrictions could affect various sectors, including farmland, dairies, wind and solar farms, and infrastructure projects like roads and airports. According to Miller, these limitations would impact Texas farmers, ranchers, small businesses, and consumers by threatening industries vital to the state's economy.
He further criticized the proposal as a "parting shot" from the Biden Administration aimed at enforcing its climate agenda before leaving office. Miller said that this approach is not balanced conservation but rather an obstacle to growth and prosperity.
"This is not a balanced approach to conservation; it’s a roadblock to growth, jobs, and prosperity," he said. "We deserve better."