On the recordNovember 13, 2012
I rise today to urge support on the motion to proceed to my bipartisan Sportsmen's Act. Outdoor traditions are a deep and important part of our heritage in Montana and across our Nation. Two years ago, when I became chair of the Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus, I made it my goal to do something significant, something historic, something responsible that will help this country's hunters and anglers. Mr. President, this week we have that opportunity. This Sportsmen's Act is the biggest package of sportsmen's bills in a generation. It combines nearly 20 different bills, all important to those who know we must never take our outdoors for granted. These bills increase access for recreational hunting and fishing. They support land and species conservation, and they protect our hunting and fishing rights. Most importantly, they take ideas from both sides of the political aisle. This bill isn't about Democrats and it isn't about Republicans or Independents. This bill is about Americans and the great outdoors we all share as a nation. This bipartisan bill is supported by nearly 50 different conservation wildlife groups ranging from the Nature Conservancy, the National Wildlife Federation, to the NRA. It earned their endorsement because it includes responsible provisions that are important to sportsmen and women across America.…
