In a narrow vote, the U.S House Representatives approved a bill to remove gray wolves from the endangered species list across the lower 48 states. The measure, introduced by Lauren Boebert, R-Colo., was largely supported by Republicans but also backed by a handful of Democrats.

The bill now heads to the U.S. Senate where it faces an uncertain future. In addition, the White House expressed its opposition and argued against Congress determining species recovery.

The debate surrounding the bill reflects a national discourse on the wolves’ future. On one side, some hunters and farmers claim the species is stable and have long voiced concerns over wolf attacks on game species and livestock, and some have also advocated for legalized wolf hunting.

Yet, conservationists argue that the wolf population remains vulnerable after decades of near extinction. They emphasize the species fragile status and warn against premature removal of protections.