The U.S. House of Representatives has recently passed two bipartisan bills that aim to advance sportsmen's access and tribal sovereignty. The bills have received significant support from both sides of the aisle, highlighting the common ground between lawmakers.
One of the bills, known as S. 788 or the Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023, was introduced by U.S. Sen. John Boozman from Arkansas. This legislation seeks to modernize the Duck Stamp program, which is used by waterfowl hunters. The bill proposes to allow hunters the option to purchase an electronic Duck Stamp, which they can carry with them on their license or mobile devices throughout the waterfowl season. Previously, hunters were required to carry a physical, signed copy of their Duck Stamp. Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman expressed his gratitude towards Sen. Boozman, saying, "I'd like to thank my friend and fellow Arkansan, Senator John Boozman, for his work to improve and modernize how waterfowl hunters across the country can purchase a Federal Duck Stamp."
The House also passed an identical version of this legislation, H.R. 2872, introduced by U.S. Rep. Garret Graves from Louisiana, earlier this year. This bipartisan support demonstrates the recognition of the need to update and streamline the process for obtaining a Duck Stamp, making it more convenient for sportsmen and women.
In addition to the Duck Stamp Modernization Act, the House also approved H.R. 2839, introduced by U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle from Oregon. This bill focuses on the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians and their hunting, fishing, trapping, and animal gathering rights. The legislation aims to establish a process by which the tribe and the state of Oregon can negotiate, amend, or replace the current agreement governing these rights. Chairman Westerman acknowledged the importance of this bill, stating, "We also passed Congresswoman Hoyle's legislation which will provide a process by which the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians can rework or negotiate the hunting, fishing, trapping, and animal gathering rights of the tribe through their agreements with the state of Oregon."
The bipartisan support for these bills reflects a commitment to finding common-sense solutions that benefit the American people. Chairman Westerman encouraged the Senate to act quickly so that these measures can be signed into law, emphasizing the importance of their impact on sportsmen's access and tribal sovereignty.
As the bills now move to the Senate, it is hoped that the bipartisan spirit demonstrated in the House will continue. These bills have the potential to make a positive difference for waterfowl hunters and the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, ensuring better access to resources and preserving tribal sovereignty.
To learn more, click on this link: https://naturalresources.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=415336
