Changes come into effect this January 2009 and allow government agencies to bypass a review by either the Fish and Wildlife Service or the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The agency received nearly 235,000 public comments with at least 208,000 in opposition to this change. Federal agencies undertaking projects like road and power plant construction will now make their own assessment, accelerating the process.

"These midnight regulations are part of a continuing effort by the Bush administration to repeal our landmark environmental laws through the back door and weaken protections for our nation's endangered species," said Sen. Barbra Boxer (D-Calif.) in a statement.

Separately, the Interior finalized a special rule for polar bears, which were listed as threatened in May because of global warming. The rule is designed to prevent the Endangered Species Act from being used and allow oil and gas development in areas where bears live.