MD HB578

Secretary of Natural Resources must review and update Irreplaceable Natural Areas Program regulations by July 1, 2033, and every 10 years thereafter; endangered/threatened species lists must be reviewed by July 1, 2026, and every 5 years thereafter

Adds definitions for "foreseeable future" and "harm" to endangered species law, with "harm" including habitat modification that kills or injures species by impairing breeding, feeding, or sheltering behaviors

Secretary must delist species when scientific data shows the species is extinct, has recovered, or new information proves it never met the definition of endangered/threatened

Prohibits taking any migratory bird listed under federal regulations (50 C.F.R. § 10.13) as of January 1, 2025; requires DNR to create black vulture take regulations if federal protections are removed

Authorizes the Secretary to designate essential habitats for endangered and threatened fish, wildlife, and plant species; determinations must be based solely on scientific data without reference to economic impacts