Tester’s Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act reaches Senate floor

Senator speaks about bill that increases public access, strengthens hunting and fishing rights

(U.S. SENATE) – Senator Jon Tester’s bill to strengthen hunting and fishing rights and improve conservation efforts nationwide reached the Senate floor this week.

Tester’s Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act, which has 45 co-sponsors, includes 12 provisions to increase public land access for hunters and anglers, protect treasured places to hunt, fish and recreate, and strengthen states’ roles in protecting wildlife.

The bill would also strengthen outdoor recreation opportunities, which generate $6 billion and support more than 60,000 jobs in Montana annually.

Tester today spoke on the Senate floor in support of the Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act.

“Accessing these lands is our birthright, and this bill delivers on the centuries-old promise to preserve our outdoor heritage,” Tester said. “By passing this bipartisan legislation, we will help ensure future generations get to experience the natural wonders passed down to us.”

The Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act is supported by over 30 outdoor sporting groups, including the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Ducks Unlimited and the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership.

During his tenure as Chairman of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, Tester introduced a similar sportsmen’s package in 2012, but it was blocked due to political gamesmanship.

Tester’s Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act is co-sponsored by Senator John Walsh.