Tester’s Sportsmen’s Act nears final passage

(U.S. SENATE) – Senator Jon Tester today released the following statement after the Senate voted to debate his bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act. Tester’s bill increases access for hunting and fishing, supports land and species conservation, and protects hunting and fishing rights:

“Sportsmen and women across Montana and the nation are calling for responsible decisions that strengthen our outdoor economy and secure our outdoor heritage for future generations. This measure does just that, taking good ideas from Republicans and Democrats to protect our hunting and fishing traditions and safeguard our most treasured places. I will keep pushing to get it across the finish line.”

Tester’s bill is supported by nearly 50 different conservation and wildlife groups, ranging from the National Rifle Association to The Nature Conservancy. It sets aside funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund to increase public land access, reauthorizes the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, and funds new shooting ranges.

Tester’s bipartisan bill, which would reduce the deficit by $5 million, moved forward by a vote of 92 to 5. A final vote is expected this week.