This Thursday, Sept. 20, U.S. senators are expected to vote on the most comprehensive legislative package for sportsmen seen in recent years. The Sportsmen’s Act of 2012 (S. 3525), introduced Sept.10, 2012, includes 19 individual bills that will benefit the sportfishing community, as well as hunters and recreational shooters. Historic in its scope, this legislation will provide for increased access, habitat conservation and improved fish and wildlife management through bills such as the National Fish Habitat Conservation Act.
Introduced by Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.), who is co-chair of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, the Sportsmen’s Act of 2012 is an omnibus bill, meaning that it contains many of the individual bills and reauthorizations important to state fish and wildlife agencies and to us as anglers, conservationists and outdoor enthusiasts. The bill will be voted on the floor of the Senate this Thursday. Individual bills of importance to the sportfishing community include Making Public Lands Public (S. 901); The Hunting, Fishing and Recreational Shooting Protection Act (S. 838); the Billfish Conservation Act (S. 1451); and most importantly, the National Fish Habitat Conservation Act (S. 1201). Help our fisheries by contacting your senators today.
The National Fish Habitat Conservation Act, as proposed, authorizes the National Fish Habitat Partnership, the most comprehensive effort to conserve, restore and enhance fish and their associated aquatic habitats on a range-wide, nationwide scale. This act and its partnerships, such as the Reservoir Fish Habitat Partnership, are crucial to the management, restoration and perpetuation of important bass habitats throughout the country.
With this important vote quickly approaching, it is critical that you let your senators know that you expect their support and vote. Click here to send your letter now.