LANDMARK LEGISLATION TO EXPAND CONSERVATION EFFORTS – In today’s political environment, it seems like conservation efforts over public land face endless challenges. Hunters and sportspeople are constantly on the defensive against anti-hunters, activities, government, and environmental uncertainties. Nonetheless, last week the U.S. House of Representatives passed the American Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Act (S.3051), which marks another victory for conservation. Built off the Great American Outdoors Act, the 116th Congress one of the most impactful for the sportspeople since the time after the big burn in 1910 under the Taft administration.
American Conservation Enhancement
Congressional Sportsmen Caucus (CSC) lobbied for the (ACE0 under member senators John Barrasso and Tom Carper. Moreover, rep Mike Thompson (Ca-05) Conservation Enhancement. With sweeping legislation serval new conservation programs, along with reauthorizes and Increases many others. Provisions under (ACE) enhance wildlife and wildlife habit conservation efforts. The ACE act includes the following which has been standing priorities for CSF:
- Reauthorizing the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) at $60 million annually for a period of 5 years;
- Prohibiting the EPA from regulating the use of lead fishing tackle for a period of 5 years;
- Establishing a task force within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to combat Chronic Wasting Disease;
- Congressionally authorizing the National Fish Habitat Partnership at $7.2 million annually for a period of 5 years;
- Reauthorizing the Chesapeake Bay Program starting at $90 million and increasing to $92 million over a 5-year period
“Passage of the ACE Act builds upon the already historic accomplishments achieved during the 116th Congress. Collectively, these policies will secure more access to public lands that hunters and anglers use most and benefit our nation’s natural resources for generations to come,” – CSF President Jeff Cane
The vital leadership of the CSF plays a key role in recognizing the priorities of Sportspeople. The need for fish and wildlife legislation is neverending. Their goal of remaining steadfast in tackling issues and commitment to the conservation community. Backers of the ACE also include California Waterfowl Association and Ducks Unlimted.
Future Of Conservation
By extension, the ACE builds off the momentum with the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) passing. Other enactments include the Dingell Act, the Target Practice and Marksmanship Training Support Act, and the Modernizing the Pittman-Robertson Fund for Tomorrow’s Needs Act. As a result, CSF is gaining traction for conservation, and with bi-partan support, a significant amount of sportspeople are working together, and showing the community is vital to the future of the CSF.
“While creating more opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors, this bill also provides critical financial relief for the businesses around our public lands. It’s a win for our environment, our economy, and for our people across our nation who will be able access these lands for generations to come. I urge the President to sign it into law as soon as possible.” – Congessmen Mike Thomspson
The ACE now heads to President Trump’s desk to ensure the legislation is signed into law.
