Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) voted on Mar. 18 in favor of H.R. 556, known as the Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act. The bill would prevent the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary of Agriculture from banning lead ammunition or tackle on federal lands and waters unless such actions are supported by science and align with state law.
The legislation is intended to address concerns that federal agencies could impose broad restrictions through rulemaking or litigation settlements. In recent years, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service restricted lead ammunition and tackle in several national wildlife refuges, while lawsuits have encouraged agencies to consider wider limits across federal lands. Supporters say such bans could increase costs for hunters and anglers because traditional lead options are often more affordable and widely available.
“Conservation decisions should be science-based, not driven by left-wing activism groups disguised as conservation groups. That’s why I voted for the Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act which respects state authority and scientific principles,” Fedorchak said. “Hunting and fishing are deeply rooted traditions in North Dakota. Across our state, sportsmen and women carry these traditions forward and serve as strong stewards of our natural resources. This bill helps support those traditions for future generations.”
The act aims to keep hunting and fishing accessible while reinforcing states’ roles in managing wildlife resources. According to the official website, Fedorchak engages North Dakotans through forums that facilitate virtual discussions about federal matters, prioritizes energy affordability, reliability, sustainability, security, domestic production, grid strength, environmental care, advances policies supporting economic growth alongside environmental protection, provides constituent services including assistance with federal agencies and grant applications, military academy nominations, flag requests, tours, internships, outreach efforts, and maintains an office at 1607 Longworth House Office Building in Washington D.C.
Looking ahead, supporters believe this legislation will help preserve outdoor traditions while ensuring regulations remain grounded in scientific evidence.
