Central Montana Times

U.S. Senator Steve Daines has introduced legislation aimed at preventing the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the U.S. Forest Service from banning lead ammunition or tackle on public lands without scientific backing. Daines emphasized the significance of outdoor activities in Montana, stating, "The great outdoors is a staple of our Montana way of life. Montana hunters and anglers play an important role in wildlife management, and a ban on lead ammo and tackle would be unfair to our sportsmen."

Daines is supported by several senators including John Thune, Jerry Moran, Dan Sullivan, Bill Cassidy, Thom Tillis, Mike Crapo, Jim Risch, Cynthia Lummis, John Barrasso, Rick Scott, James Lankford, Tommy Tuberville, Mike Lee, John Boozman, Roger Marshall, Marsha Blackburn, Roger Wicker, Deb Fischer, Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Jim Justice (R-W.V.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), and Cindy Hyde-Smith.

The introduction of this bill follows settlement negotiations between FWS and activist organizations concerning traditional ammunition and tackle usage on federal land. In 2022 discussions were initiated over a lawsuit impacting more than three million acres. Daines had previously urged FWS Director Martha Williams not to succumb to pressures from activist groups seeking restrictions.

Furthermore,Daines addressed concerns about a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service draft plan for the Charles M. Russell Wetland Management District that includes potential bans on lead ammunition and tackle within the district.