Lead Ammunition Use on Federal Land

Official: Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act of 2025

IntroducedN/A

Public Lands and Natural ResourcesMetalsHazardous wastes and toxic substancesLand use and conservationWildlife conservation and habitat protectionHunting and fishing

Why This Matters

This bill allows the continued use of lead ammunition and tackle on federal lands unless proven harmful to wildlife. It aims to protect hunting and fishing activities while addressing wildlife concerns only in specific cases.

If you hunt or fish on federal land, you can keep using lead ammunition and tackle unless local wildlife is at risk.

Affects: Hunters and anglers who use federal lands and waters for their activities.

Summary

Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act of 2025This bill bars the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and the Forest Service from prohibiting or regulating the use of lead ammunition or tackle on federal land or water. The bill makes exceptions for specified existing regulations and where the FWS, the BLM, or the Forest Service determines that a decline in wildlife population at the specific unit of federal land or water is primarily caused by the use of lead in ammunition or tackle, based on the field data from such unit, and the state approves the regulations.

What changes is this bill making?

1. This bill stops the government from banning lead ammunition and tackle on certain federal lands and waters. 2. Hunters and anglers can continue using lead ammunition and tackle unless specific wildlife issues arise. 3. The bill allows exceptions only if lead use is proven to harm wildlife in a specific area. 4. Any new regulations must align with state laws and policies regarding wildlife management. 5. The government must explain any restrictions it imposes in official notices.

Who is affected?

Hunters and anglers who use federal lands and waters for their activities.