Pinehurst Today

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed Rep. Richard Hudson's Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act (H.R. 615), a bill aimed at safeguarding recreation access for hunters and anglers. In response to the legislative success, Rep. Hudson emphasized the importance of the bill, stating, "Sportsmen and women play a critical role in conserving America's lands and wildlife. The Biden Administration's proposed ban on lead ammunition and fishing tackle will hurt our conservationists' ability to do what they do best."

Rep. Hudson, who led the bill alongside Rep. Rob Wittman, highlighted the detrimental impact of the proposed ban on lead ammunition and tackle, expressing pride in their efforts to prevent it. The legislation will prevent the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture from prohibiting the use of lead ammunition or tackle on federal lands and waters unless in line with state law and supported by science.

The concern over the potential ban of lead ammunition and tackle stems from the accessibility and affordability of lead ammunition in comparison to alternatives. Banning its use could create financial barriers for hunters and anglers, making the activity less accessible. The bill aims to address these concerns and ensure continued access for sportsmen and women to federal lands for recreational purposes.

The bill was introduced last year by Rep. Hudson and Rep. Wittman, with support from nearly 50 colleagues. The Biden administration's move to prohibit lead ammunition and tackle in certain national wildlife refuges sparked the need for legislation to address the issue and protect the interests of hunters and anglers.

Various organizations, including the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, American Sportfishing Association, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, National Shooting Sports Foundation, and Safari Club International, have voiced their support for the bill, recognizing the importance of maintaining access for hunters and anglers on federal lands.

The passage of the Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act marks a significant step in addressing the concerns raised by the potential ban on lead ammunition and tackle, ensuring that the interests of sportsmen and women are protected in the conservation of America's lands and wildlife.