Rep. Jeff Hurd (CO-03) announced that his first piece of legislation, the Wetlands Conservation and Access Improvement Act (H.R. 2316), has been signed into law by President Trump. The new law aims to strengthen funding for habitat restoration and wetland conservation while increasing hunting access and supporting healthy ecosystems throughout the United States.
A key provision of the legislation extends the period during which interest earned on the Wildlife Restoration Fund can accumulate before being spent. This change is designed to allow resources in the fund, which is financed by a sales tax on firearms, ammunition, and archery equipment paid by hunters and sportsmen, to grow further and generate more revenue for future conservation efforts.
“This legislation supports hunters, improves wetland health, and ensures future generations can enjoy the outdoors,” said Rep. Hurd. “I’m honored to deliver this win for our hunters, wildlife, and America’s outdoor heritage. By allowing the Wildlife Restoration Fund to grow before being spent, we’re making a smart investment that will pay dividends for habitat restoration and outdoor access for years to come.”
The act also increases funding for the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), a bipartisan initiative focused on restoring wetlands and protecting waterfowl habitats across North America. NAWCA has used public-private partnerships to help conserve more than 32 million acres of habitat while expanding opportunities for outdoor activities nationwide.