Florida manatee habitat ruling sent back after US agency changes harm definition

A federal appeals court has remanded a legal dispute concerning Florida’s wastewater regulations back to a lower court, focusing on their potential effects on manatee habitats in the North Indian River Lagoon. The case initially favored Bear Warriors United, Inc., citing violations of the Endangered Species Act. Recent modifications to federal definitions of harm prompted further review, ensuring the new regulations will play a role in the proceedings.