Story perspectives

DiCaprio Urges 60 Million to Oppose H.R. 1897

4/23/2026

Center

DiCaprio Advocates Conservation

Leonardo DiCaprio, actor and environmental activist, marked Earth Day by urging 60 million Instagram followers to oppose H.R. 1897.
He criticized the bill for prioritizing short-term economic gains over protection of vulnerable species and ecosystems.
He said the changes threaten national security and noted the Endangered Species Act was enacted in 1973.
He urged followers to contact representatives while Bill Nye and others advocate environmental protection.

Right

Republicans Postpone Vote

House Republicans postponed a vote on the Endangered Species Act Amendments Act (H.R. 1897) on April 22, 2026.
The bill would limit judicial review of delisting and grant states more regulatory power.
It faced bipartisan opposition and concerns from some Florida Republicans.
Critics say the changes could raise extinction rates and favor economic growth over conservation.
Despite the setback, some Democrats have expressed willingness to negotiate on permitting reforms.

History

Historical Context

The Endangered Species Act (ESA), enacted on December 28, 1973, aimed to prevent species extinction due to human activities. With over 1,600 species currently listed as endangered or threatened, the ESA has faced ongoing challenges, including economic interests conflicting with conservation efforts. Leonardo DiCaprio's recent advocacy against H.R. 1897 underscores the potential risks to decades of progress in protecting vulnerable ecosystems.

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DiCaprio Advocates Conservation

Leonardo DiCaprio, actor and environmental activist, marked Earth Day by urging 60 million Instagram followers to oppose H.R. 1897.
He criticized the bill for prioritizing short-term economic gains over protection of vulnerable species and ecosystems.
He said the changes threaten national security and noted the Endangered Species Act was enacted in 1973.
He urged followers to contact representatives while Bill Nye and others advocate environmental protection.

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