The decision to rescind the regulatory definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) could enable extractive industries to destroy or modify the habitat of imperiled plants and animals — the places they need to feed, shelter, raise their young — even if it results in their death or injury.

Seven former officials from Republican and Democratic administrations oppose action that would strip habitat destruction from the law’s definition of harm.

Public outpouring highlights growing support for one of the world’s most endangered whale species