Quarter 2 Hunting, Fishing, and Conservation Policy Update – Federal Legislation, Fisheries Management & Public Lands   Narrative: In this Q2 federal policy roundup for hunters, anglers, and conservation advocates, we dive deep into the latest developments shaping the future of hunting, fishing, public lands, and forest management.   Hunting and Public Lands Policy with Taylor Schmitz First up, Director of Federal Relations Taylor Schmitz breaks down key federal policy shifts impacting sportsmen and women. From new Department of the Interior appointments to controversial proposals around public land sales, Taylor explains what these developments mean for hunting access, land conservation, and the broader outdoor community. Learn why Kate McGregor’s return and Brian Nesvik’s nomination matter to hunters and anglers, and why the upcoming congressional schedule is critical to follow.   Fishing and Fisheries Management with Chris Horton Next, Senior Director of Fisheries Policy Chris Horton joins to discuss top federal priorities affecting fishing and recreational anglers. He covers major legislation like the reauthorization of the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund and the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act, along with the impact of shifting ocean conditions and the growing need for smarter fisheries management. Chris emphasizes collaboration between federal and state agencies and encourages all anglers to stay informed and active in fishing policy debates.   Forest Management and Timber Policy with John Culclasure To close out the episode, Senior Director of Forestry Policy John Culclasure provides an update on the Fix Our Forests Act and its implications for wildlife habitat, forest access, and timber production. He highlights how responsible forest management supports both conservation and hunting opportunities, while also touching on national security concerns tied to domestic timber supply. In addition, he discusses how state-level policies are affecting access to public lands for the hunting and fishing community.   Key Takeaways for Hunters and Anglers: Federal hunting and fishing policy is being shaped by new leadership at the Department of the Interior. Congress is tackling big-ticket items like public land sales that could impact millions of acres used for hunting and fishing. Reauthorization of the Sport Fish Restoration Fund is a major win for recreational fishing and boating access. Fisheries legislation aims to protect marine habitats and support sustainable sportfishing. Forest policy reform through the Fix Our Forests Act is crucial for maintaining habitat, access, and wildlife conservation. Misinformation around forest management could threaten future access for sportsmen. Domestic timber markets face challenges that could impact long-term forest health and hunting grounds. Active engagement by the hunting and fishing community is essential to protect our outdoor heritage and public lands.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter                Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fred Bird dives into a lead story about a critical fisheries reform bill in North Carolina with Senior Coordinator, Southeastern States Conner Barker. House Bill 442, which aims to prohibit industrial shrimp trawling in inshore waters, highlights the ecological impacts of shrimp trawling, including bycatch and habitat destruction. Fred and Conner emphasize the support from the recreational fishing community for these badly needed reforms, and share a positive outlook on the future of marine conservation efforts in the Tar Heel State. Fred then transitions to cover the rest of the news fit to print about the great outdoors this week, including the push for a habitat project in Virginia; hunting opportunities expansion in Hawaii to manage invasive feral pigs, goats and sheep; and much more!   Takeaways Critical Fisheries Reform Legislation Advancing in NC: House Bill 442 aims to prohibit industrial shrimp trawling in inshore waters, where North Carolina's estuaries are vital marine habitats and bycatch from shrimp trawling negatively impacts juvenile fish species. North Carolina is an anomaly among Southeastern states in that they allow industrial shrimp trawling in the state’s inshore waters.  Early Successional Habitat in Virginia: Timber harvest, prescribed burns, and other vegetation treatments in the VA Archer Knob project will help correct an age-class imbalance on the George Washington National Forest. Hawaii Game Management: The 2025 game management area hunting season empowers sportsmen and women to manage invasive species, while protecting native ecosystems and providing sporting opportunity. By targeting feral species, hunters support the critically endangered palila, aligning with conservation goals.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fred Bird and Taylor Schmitz discuss the current legislative landscape surrounding federal public lands, focusing on the Senate's push to sell off significant portions of these lands. They explore the implications of such actions on local communities, the importance of scrutiny in the legislative process, and the need for collaboration between stakeholders to address the challenges posed by federal land management. The conversation emphasizes the complexity of the issue and the necessity for a balanced approach that considers both conservation and community needs. Fred then transitions to cover the rest of the news fit to print about the great outdoors this week, including the push for Sunday Hunting in Pennsylvania, the 75th anniversary of the Sport Fish Restoration Act, the Will Primos Invitational event, and legislative highlights from Mississippi, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Wyoming, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and community engagement in conservation efforts.   Takeaways CSF Opposes Push to Sell off Federal Lands: CSF remains opposed to moving land disposals and sales through the reconciliation process, which requires a simple majority vote in the U.S. Senate compared to the normal threshold of 60 votes.  The Will Primos Invitational: The Will Primos Invitational combines sporting traditions with conservation efforts. Learn more about this incredible event by listening in! Legislative Updates: Featuring updates including Mississippi's legislative session and the need for better conservation funding. Michigan and Wisconsin modernizing their conservation funding mechanisms. Wyoming addressing wildlife management and conservation priorities for 2026 and much more.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/   ALPHEUS RIGS TO REEFS ARENA TRAILER: https://vimeo.com/1093711323/1b722adfa4?ts=0&share=copy  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of predator and wildlife management across the United States. From the reinstatement of black bear hunting in Louisiana to ongoing debates in Florida and Washington, we explore how science, legislation, and public perception shape the future of hunting, conservation, and land use. Join Fred and the crew as they examine the growing tensions between wildlife and human development, the role of hounds and trapping in sustainable management, and why the hunting community must better communicate its conservation value. We also discuss the challenges of managing emerging predators like jaguars and the controversial reintroduction of species into ecosystems. Key Takeaways: Bear Hunting Regulations Vary Widely by State: Oregon and Idaho offer spring bear seasons; Washington does not. Louisiana recently reinstated its black bear hunting season after decades, and Florida is considering reopening its black bear season. Science-Based Wildlife Management Is Essential: Predator-prey dynamics are complex and must be studied to avoid unintended consequences. Reintroduction of species, such as wolves and mountain lions, can disrupt existing ecosystems. Trapping and Hound Hunting Remain Valuable Tools: Used for selective predator control and critical data collection. Legislative efforts continue to impact their use across states. Legislation and Public Perception Drive Wildlife Policy: Conservation decisions are often shaped more by emotion than by science. The hunting community must better advocate for its role in sustainable wildlife management. Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter                Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Sportsmen’s Voice Roundup for this week kicks off with CSF’s Senior Director, Fisheries Policy Chris Horton for our lead story on the management of Atlantic red snapper. Chris provides insights into the recent changes in regulations, the importance of accurate data collection, and the potential for state management of fisheries. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by recreational fishermen and the need for innovative management strategies to ensure sustainability and access to fishing resources. Fred then transitions to cover the rest of the news fit to print about the great outdoors this week, including Oklahoma's Senate Bill 50, which provides tax exemptions for firearm safety devices, and the defeat of two detrimental bills in California. It also highlights South Carolina's legislative successes in conservation and access, updates on pro-knife legislation in the Northeast, and the Congressional Fishing Competition that emphasized community engagement and conservation efforts. Takeaways Atlantic Red Snapper Management: The final version of Amendment 59 addresses red snapper management. NOAA's overfishing designation was based on outdated assessments, meanwhile, the South Atlantic now has the highest abundance of red snapper in history and state management of red snapper could improve fishing access. Oklahoma SB50: Hailed as a significant bipartisan victory, this sales tax exemption on gun safes supports responsible firearm ownership. California Victories: California's recent legislative victories include the defeat of several anti-gun bills including Senate Bill 15, which unfairly targeted FFL holders for illegal firearm use.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Sportsmen’s Voice Roundup for this week kicks off with CSF’s Assistant Manager, Northeastern States Christian Ragost for our lead story regarding the imminent “assault” weapons ban in Rhode Island, the implications for law-abiding citizens - including criminalizing important safety accessories such as barrel shrouds (which prevent burns from contact with gun barrels), thumbholes in shotgun stocks, and more, along with the impact on conservation funding. Christian and Fred explore the political dynamics surrounding the legislation and the ongoing challenges faced by the firearms community. Fred then transitions to cover the rest of the news fit to print about the great outdoors this week, including the introduction of the Forest Conservation Easement Program, the potential reestablishment of a black bear hunting season in Florida, the Hawaii Wildlife Conservation and Game Bird Stamp contest, and a recap of sporting bills in the Missouri legislative session. Takeaways Rhode Island “Assault” Weapons Ban: This imminent ban would criminalize several important safety accessories as ‘assault weapons’ including barrel shrouds (which protect your hand from burns associate with barrel heat), thumbholes in shotgun stocks, pistol grips, extendable or telescopic stocks to better fit competitive shooters, and more.  The Forest Conservation Easement Program: Private forests comprise 58 percent of all forestland in the U.S. and face significant conversion pressure from housing and urban development. The U.S. could lose a net of 37 million acres (15 million hectares) — the size of Illinois — of forest by 2060. To address the growing suite of pressing environmental and societal challenges in front of us, we must provide opportunities for private forestland and forest landowners of all types and sizes to protect and conserve their land now and for future generations. Florida Black Bear Hunting Season: Florida is considering instituting a management hunt to better control the black bear population in the Sunshine State.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a very special week that is near and dear to National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) President and CEO Joe Bartozzi, who joins Fred on the Sportsmen’s Voice podcast to talk about Project ChildSafe® and Gun Storage Check Week. Fred welcomes Joe Bartozzi to the show to emphasize the importance of firearm safety, secure storage, and the myriad of educational resources available to gun owners. Bartozzi shares personal stories and insights on the significance of proactive measures to prevent accidents and misuse of firearms, and they cover the need for responsible gun ownership to protect and support our rights, the impact of new gun owners on the shooting sports and firearms community, and the various options available to gun owners for securing firearms at home and in vehicles.    Key Takeaways: Project Childsafe®: This incredible program has distributed over 41 million firearm safety kits. Gun Storage Check Week: This initiative aims to remind gun owners to assess their storage practices, and provides education that is crucial for new gun owners to understand secure storage options. Responsible Storage Tips: There is no one-size-fits-all approach to firearm storage; it varies by individual circumstances. However, technological advancements have made secure storage more accessible and efficient. Firearms should always be unloaded when not in use, and cable locks are a simple solution, and vehicle storage is critical, as many firearms are stolen from cars.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter                Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Sportsmen’s Voice Roundup, CSF’s own Fred Bird breaks down the latest legislative battles and victories shaping hunting, fishing, and conservation policy across the U.S. From a controversial anti-conservation ballot initiative in Colorado to critical updates on North Carolina’s recreational flounder regulations, to spotlighting West Virginia’s productive legislative session for the outdoor community and Iowa’s strong push to constitutionally protect hunting and fishing rights, Fred covers what sportsmen and women need to know now. Takeaways Colorado's Anti-Conservation Ballot Initiative: What it means to create a “parallel” wildlife commission—and why sportsmen are pushing back. North Carolina Flounder Fishing Update: New regulations aimed at parity and protecting a vital recreational fishery. West Virginia Legislative Wins: A look at pro-sportsmen legislation that made progress this session. Iowa's Constitutional Amendment: The movement to enshrine the right to hunt and fish in the state constitution. The Dangers of Ballot Box Biology: How bypassing science in wildlife management can harm conservation efforts. Economic Impact: Why recreational fishing is a key driver of North Carolina’s outdoor economy. The Role of Advocacy: How engagement and accurate reporting are vital in shaping effective outdoor policy.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Sportsmen's Voice Roundup, Fred Bird and CSF Assistant Manager, Midwestern States Bob Matthews kick off with our lead story discussing a new bill in Michigan aimed at integrating hunter education into public schools. Fred and Bob dive into the importance of this initiative, why the hunter ed in schools legislation is a priority for the CSF, the role of hunters in wildlife management, and the need for increased public understanding of conservation funding. Then, Fred dives into the rest of the headlines affecting sportsmen and women in the US, including legislation targeting poachers, increased public access to lands, new fishing regulation updates, and more news to support outdoor traditions and communities. Takeaways The MAPOceans Act: The Act aims to clarify fishing regulations, where public access is crucial to outdoor activity. Michigan Outdoor Education: New legislation in Michigan is expanding outdoor education opportunities in the Great Lake State.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this feature episode of The Sportsmen’s Voice, host Fred Bird sits down with Mark Damian Duda, founder and executive director of Responsive Management, to reflect on a recent New England turkey hunt the two shared and dive deep into the human dimensions of wildlife conservation. They explore the vital role that hunters play in conservation funding, the public’s changing attitudes toward hunting, and how research-based communication strategies can shift perceptions and build stronger public support. From demographic trends to the importance of wildlife councils, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of hunting and conservation in America. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman, a wildlife advocate, or simply curious about how legal, regulated hunting contributes to conservation, this conversation delivers valuable insight backed by decades of public opinion research. Key Takeaways: Understanding Non-Hunter Perspectives: How have demographic shifts in the United States affected how people view the natural world and our place in it? Find out about Mark’s groundbreaking research. Public Support Of Hunting: Has it declined? What steps can hunters and sportsmen and women take to recover the public perception of their lifestyle? Mark answers this and more. Responsive Management’s Research: Mark dives into the power of Responsive Management’s research in shaping effective outreach strategies, how demographic shifts are reshaping the future of hunting, why positive messaging and respectful language (e.g. "legal, regulated hunting") resonate more with the public, and more. Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Sportsmen's Voice Roundup, Fred Bird and Chris Horton kick off with our lead story discussing the introduction of the Sporting Goods Excise Tax Modernization Act in the Senate and how this bipartisan bill stands to combat tax and conservation funding avoidance. They then tackle an update on the Rigs to Reef legislation, new legislation out of North Dakota's recent legislative session, enhancements to Alaska's Big Game Commercial Services Board, the Fix Our Forest Act aimed at wildfire risk reduction, and efforts to expand Sunday hunting opportunities in Connecticut. Takeaways The Sporting Goods Excise Tax Modernization Act: This legislation is crucial for conservation funding, by closing loopholes exploited by foreign manufacturers to get around the North American Model. North Dakota Senate Bill 2137: This North Dakota bill, which has been passed and signed into law, prohibits NDGFD from enacting or implementing policies related to baiting or supplemental feeding for hunting big game animals on private property.  Alaska Big Game Service Board: Alaska's Big Game Commercial Services Board is being enhanced - look for more in a future episode with Marie Neumiller on that one!   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Sportsmen's Voice Roundup, Fred tackles it solo, covering all the news that’s fit to print concerning the outdoor community around the country including legislation aimed at enhancing access to public lands, paint balling bears in California (you read that right), voter registration initiatives for sportsmen in Michigan, advancements in muzzleloading technology in Louisiana, and an update to draconian knife legislation in Delaware.  Takeaways The America The Beautiful Act: Our lead story from Taylor Schmitz relays how this key legislation aims to restore public land infrastructure. California’s Bear Boom: California's bear population has grown due to hunting restrictions, while Fred covers some… interesting… ideas from anti-hunters on how to manage bears including throwing pinecones and shooting them with paintball guns. Delaware Knife Law Update: CSF supports a fix to Delaware’s knife laws repealing the ban on so-called “switch blade” assisted opening knives, paving the way for another useful tool in sportsmen’s gear bag in the state.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 In this week’s feature episode of The Sportsmen’s Voice Podcast, host Fred Bird sits down with Angi Bruce, the first female director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, to talk about the evolving challenges and opportunities in wildlife management in the Cowboy State. From emerging legislation and the push for science-based policy to the tension between resident and non-resident hunters, Angi provides a candid look at how Wyoming balances conservation, tourism, and access to public lands. This episode unpacks the realities of conservation funding, the role of hunters in protecting wildlife, and why community engagement and bipartisan support are essential to the future of Wyoming’s outdoor heritage. Key Takeaways: Learn About Director Angie Bruce: Dive into Angi’s historic role as the first female director of Wyoming Game and Fish The Push For Science-Based Management: Answering why wildlife management should be science-led, not politically driven Wyoming Conservation Funding: Discover how hunting and fishing licenses fund 100% of the agency Residents VS Non-Residents: Explore the growing anti-non-resident sentiment—and what’s behind it Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Sportsmen's Voice roundup, Fred is joined by CSF’s Senior Coordinator of Southeastern States Conner Barker for this week’s lead story on the ongoing debate surrounding Sunday hunting restrictions in North Carolina. Conner and Fred dive into the historical context, recent legislative changes, and the implications of recent court rulings on the future of the policy, along with the impact of these restrictions on hunters and the broader conservation community. Fred then dives into all the rest of the key headlines affecting sportsmen and women around the country, including recent legislative changes affecting wildlife management in North Dakota, the ongoing scrutiny of lead ammunition in the Northeast, and the celebration of Sportsmen's Day in Colorado. Takeaways North Carolina Sunday Hunting: North Carolina has restrictive Sunday hunting laws dating back over a century, and has recently seen legislative and rule making changes opening up Sunday hunting on private lands and 51 game lands. North Dakota Wildlife Agency Authority: CSF believes wildlife management should remain with state agencies for effective conservation; unfortunately recent legislation has now stripped some management authority from the North Dakota Game and Fish Department.   Lead Ammo In The Northeast: CSF opposes statutory bans on using lead ammunition that would have unintended and negative impacts on conservation funding, to the detriment of habitat and wildlife conservation efforts.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Sportsmen's Voice podcast, Fred covers critical state-level legislative developments that could shape the future of hunting, fishing, and conservation across the country. With updates from Arkansas, Washington, Massachusetts, North Carolina, and South Carolina, this episode gives sportsmen and women around the country the insights they need to stay informed and engaged. Takeaways Arkansas: Tune in for updates on how a successful legislative session brings several pro-sportsmen bills across the finish line, reinforcing hunting and fishing rights. Washington: Recent appointments to the state’s Fish and Wildlife Commission aim to restore balance and ensure better representation of sportsmen’s interests. Massachusetts: A controversial new bill could restrict hunting and fishing in designated old-growth forest reserves, potentially setting a dangerous precedent for public land access. Sustainable Management: The North American Model of Wildlife Conservation remains the foundation for effective, science-based practices.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Sportsmen’s Voice Podcast, host Fred Bird is joined once again by Senior Director of Fisheries Policy Chris Horton to break down House Bill 443—a game-changing piece of legislation aimed at improving recreational fishing data collection in Georgia. They dive into why federal fishery management systems are falling short, and how state-led efforts can lead to more accurate, real-time data, longer fishing seasons, and better policy decisions for anglers. The conversation covers everything from slot limits and discard mortality to the impact of artificial reefs and post-release mortality rates. If you care about sustainable fishing, angler rights, and better fishing seasons, this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways: House Bill 443: This bill introduces a saltwater fishing license fee to fund improved data collection. All About Data: Federal data collection methods lack the real-time accuracy needed for today’s fishery management, while state-level management allows for localized, angler-driven decisions. Accurate angler reporting = longer, better fishing seasons. Poor estimates of fish harvested, as well as those that are released, can cut seasons short. Total mortality: Total mortality includes released fish – a percentage of which are expected to die. High release rates and slot limits can increase discard mortality. Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Sportsmen's Voice podcast, Fred Bird and CSF’s Assistant Manager for the Southwestern States Barry Snell, discuss two Arizona bills aimed at protecting Second Amendment rights, prohibiting Merchant Category Coding and Firearms Preemption. The conversation then shifts to the controversial hounding petition in Arizona. The two exploring the implications of and the potential consequences of banning hound hunting, highlighting the importance of community engagement in wildlife management and the challenges posed by urban perspectives on rural wildlife issues. Fred then covers the rest of the news around the nation important to sportsmen, including the management of coyote populations in Michigan, the significance of public access to waterways in West Virginia, the need for effective forest management to prevent wildfires, and the establishment of collegiate coalitions to engage youth in conservation efforts.  Takeaways Pro Gun Legislation Advancing In Arizona: Arizona is advancing firearm legislation to protect Second Amendment rights, where merchant category codes could infringe on financial privacy for all consumers and civil penalties for government officials may deter restrictive local gun laws. Hound Hunting Ban Petition Circulating In Arizona: The hounding petition in Arizona seeks to ban all hound hunting. Meanwhile, a similar California ban on hounding has led to increased wildlife-human conflicts. Michigan Coyotes: Michigan is looking at a year-round season for coyote hunting after the Commission voted to shorten the season last year, excluding Mid-April through Mid-July. Coyote hunting and management is crucial for ecological balance in Michigan and beyond. Public Access To Public Waterways: Public access to waterways is essential for conservation funding as a lynchpin for many recreational activities.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode of The Sportsmen’s Voice Roundup, Fred covers all the news fit to print about the world of hunting, fishing and shooting policy including the 75th anniversary of the Sport Fishing Restoration Act, a deep dive into the American System of Conservation Funding, and recent legislative developments in Maine, Oregon, Minnesota, and Georgia, along with emphasizing the importance of self-funding conservation programs and the role of sportsmen and women in wildlife management.    Takeaways Sport Fish Restoration Act: This important Act has been crucial for aquatic resource conservation for 75 years. Firearm Transfer Waiting Period In Maine: CSF is working hard on repealing a 72-hour waiting period for firearm transfers. Crossbows In Minnesota: Crossbows are being fully included in Minnesota's archery season, in a big win for accessibility for hunters.   Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this feature episode of The Sportsmen's Voice, Fred sits down with Steve Smith, Executive Director of Pennsylvania Game Commission, to discuss Sunday hunting in Pennsylvania and the years-long and ongoing push to pass landmark legislation to remove the remaining restrictions. Then, Fred is joined by CSF Vice President of Policy Brent Miller to dive deeper into the the complexities surrounding Sunday hunting legislation across the United States as a whole (a subject Brent actually wrote his thesis on!). They explore the historical context and theories of Sunday hunting bans (hint, it’s not what people think), the incremental approach to changing these laws, and the various arguments for and against Sunday hunting, including safety concerns, discrimination against hunters, the opposition from professional guides and landowners, the importance of youth hunting opportunities and the bipartisan efforts to advance hunting rights.  Key Takeaways: Historical Context Is Everything: Discrimination against hunters is evident in Sunday hunting laws. Diving into the history of these bans can reveal the potentially classist, and possibly even racist roots of Sunday hunting bans, while safety concerns regarding hunting on Sundays are largely unfounded. Longstanding Priority In The Keystone State: The push for Sunday hunting has been a long-standing priority for the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Legislative momentum is building, with a majority of hunters now supporting Sunday hunting. Stakeholder Updates: The Farm Bureau's support for Sunday hunting marks a significant shift in stakeholder perspectives, along with the support of hunters themselves  Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode of The Sportsmen’s Voice Roundup, Fred is joined by CSF’s Mid-Atlantic Assistant Manager, Kaleigh Leager to discuss Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin’s VETO of antigun legislation in the state. Kaleigh and Fred break down the implications of age restrictions on firearm purchases, the ongoing debate surrounding assault weapon legislation, and the importance of retaining young sportsmen and women in the hunting community. Fred also covers a policy briefing on Capitol Hill, updates from South Dakota's legislative session, nominations for the Department of Interior, developments in Nevada's hunting laws, Connecticut's restrictions on Sunday hunting, and the potential for elk hunting in North Carolina. Get all the news fit to print about the great outdoors and the sports we all love right here!   Takeaways Unifying Priorities For Sportsmen And Women: The American Wildlife Conservation Partners (AWCP) sponsored a policy briefing on Capitol Hill focused on unifying priorities for sportsmen and women. Two Anti-Sportsmen’s Bills Defeated in South Dakota: CSF, working with partners and the South Dakota Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus, defeated bills that would have reduced funding for South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks and limited hunting access.  Department Of Interior Nominations: The following CSF-supported nominees are working through the confirmation process right now, Brian Nesvik is vying to be the next Director of the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Katherine MacGregor will serve as the next Deputy Secretary of the Department of the Interior.    Get the FREE Sportsmen’s Voice e-publication in your inbox every Monday: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/newsletter   Sign up for FREE legislative tracking through CSF’s Tracking the Capitols tool: www.congressionalsportsmen.org/tracking-the-capitols/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices