Story perspectives

Florida Reviews Manta Ray Capture Permits Amid Backlash

9/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Florida authorities will review permits for capturing endangered species following public backlash over a manta ray capture.
A viral video of the capture prompted bipartisan lawmakers to call for permit revocation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
As of August 19, 2025, the FWC has paused new licenses for shark and ray captures.
FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto announced a policy review on capturing protected marine species.
Lawmakers advocate for formal rules to ban the removal of endangered species for public display, with hearings set for early 2026.

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Story summary

Florida authorities will review permits for capturing endangered species following public backlash over a manta ray capture.
A viral video of the capture prompted bipartisan lawmakers to call for permit revocation by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
As of August 19, 2025, the FWC has paused new licenses for shark and ray captures.
FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto announced a policy review on capturing protected marine species.
Lawmakers advocate for formal rules to ban the removal of endangered species for public display, with hearings set for early 2026.