Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act
Policy blocks federal bans on lead ammo and fishing tackle on public lands, allows local exceptions
Stalled
No legislative action in over 90 days.
Legislative Progress
215–202
Key Points
- Stops federal wildlife and land agencies from banning lead bullets or fishing weights on most public lands and waters open to hunting and fishing
- Keeps current national rules for waterfowl hunting that already limit lead use in place
- Allows a local ban only if site data shows wildlife is declining mainly due to lead and the state wildlife agency agrees or has matching rules; the agency must post a public notice
- Hunters and anglers could keep using cheaper lead gear in many places; others worry lead can poison birds like eagles and harm fish
- Does not change rules on state or private land; it only affects federal areas open to hunting and fishing
Impact Analysis
Personal Impact
How this policy affects specific groups of people
Milestones
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
Sent to a congressional committee for expert review. The committee decides whether this bill moves forward.
Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
On passage Passed by recorded vote: 215 - 202 (Roll no. 93).
Passed/agreed to in House: On passage Passed by recorded vote: 215 - 202 (Roll no. 93).
The House of Representatives voted to approve this bill. It now goes to the Senate.
On motion to recommit Failed by the Yeas and Nays: 206 - 209 (Roll no. 92).
Vote Results
2 votesOn Motion to Recommit
Related News
10 articles
Sen. Steve Daines Introduces Bill Blocking Bans on Lead Tackle and Ammo
Coverage of S. 537, the Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act of 2025, introduced by Sen. Steve Daines to bar federal agencies from banning lead ammunition and tackle on most public lands and waters.
Rep. Wittman & Sen. Daines Reintroduce the Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act
Announcement of H.R. 556 and its Senate companion to prevent Interior and Agriculture from banning traditional lead ammo and tackle on federal lands, with limited site-specific exceptions.
House Natural Resources Committee Advances Key Hunting Bills
Committee action moves H.R. 556, the Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act, toward a House floor vote, aiming to block broad federal lead ammo and tackle bans on public lands and waters.
Source Information
Document Type
Congressional Bill
Official Title
Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act
Data Sources
Sponsor
Cosponsors
(83)Analysis generated by AI. Always verify with official sources.