Which law requires the federal government to protect all species listed as endangered?

• A. Endangered Species Act of 1973
• B. Clean Air Act
• C. National Environmental Policy Act
• D. Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is identifying the law that directly requires the federal government to protect species officially listed as endangered and to work toward their recovery. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 is that law. It establishes formal lists of species that are endangered or threatened and places duties on federal agencies to ensure their actions do not jeopardize the continued existence of these species or their habitats. It also authorizes designating critical habitat and requires recovery plans to help bring species back from the brink. In short, this act creates the legal framework for protecting listed species and their environments across the country.

The other laws address different public-interest goals. The Clean Air Act focuses on reducing air pollutants and improving air quality, not on safeguarding listed species. The National Environmental Policy Act requires federal agencies to assess environmental effects of their actions, but it doesn’t itself provide targeted protections for endangered species. The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act regulates pesticides, primarily through registration and labeling, rather than establishing broad protections for endangered species.