KCBD, NewsChannel 11 Lubbock |Lawsuit accuses FEMA of ignoring species threats
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Associated Press - September 16, 2009 1:05 PM ET
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - The Federal Emergency Management Agency is being sued again over accusations that it violated the Endangered Species Act by issuing flood insurance without determining whether development would impact imperiled plants and animals.
WildEarth Guardians filed a federal lawsuit against the agency in New Mexico on Tuesday. The suit follows similar legal actions in Washington, Oregon, Florida and Arizona.
Environmentalists contend FEMA skirted its duties to protect endangered and threatened species and conserve their habitat by issuing insurance polices for development within flood plains. They contend such areas, especially in arid states, are vital to species' survival.
WildEarth Guardians want FEMA to consult with federal wildlife managers and stop issuing policies in New Mexico flood plains where new construction would harm endangered species.
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