Every year, endangered Florida panthers are killed on our roads. Last year alone, 18 panthers died, all but one from vehicle collisions. This year, deaths have already begun again.

These are not rare, isolated incidents. They are happening again and again, pushing an already vulnerable species closer to the edge.

But it’s not just wildlife at risk.

Across the country, vehicle collisions with animals cause thousands of injuries and cost billions of dollars each year. Families are impacted. Drivers are put in danger. Entire ecosystems suffer. This is a problem we can see, measure, and solve.

There is already a proven solution: wildlife crossings.

These crossings, which include overpasses and underpasses designed for animals, help prevent deadly collisions by giving wildlife a safe path across busy roads. In Florida, projects like the crossing along U.S. 27 are already making a difference in areas where panthers and other animals are most at risk.

But now, this progress is in danger of stopping.

The federal wildlife crossings program that funds these lifesaving projects is set to expire this fall unless Congress takes action. Without reauthorization, critical projects could be delayed or canceled entirely, putting both people and wildlife back in harm’s way.

This is not a partisan issue. Protecting human lives, preserving endangered species, and investing in smart infrastructure are goals we can all agree on.

We call on the United States Congress, including members of the House and Senate transportation and infrastructure committees, to urgently reauthorize and fully fund the federal wildlife crossings program before it expires.

We have the tools. We have the evidence. What we need now is the will to act.

Every crossing built is a life saved, whether human or animal.

Sign this petition to protect Florida panthers, make our roads safer, and ensure this critical program continues before it is too late.