The gist

• Bans lead bullets and shot on all U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) lands within one year, forcing hunters to use nonlead alternatives.

Who wins, who loses

• Wins: wildlife (especially endangered scavengers like eagles and condors), hunters eating game meat, nearby ecosystems.
• Loses: hunters who prefer cheaper lead ammo; ammunition manufacturers selling lead products for FWS-land hunting.

What it does

• Orders the Interior Secretary to issue final rules within one year banning lead ammo on FWS lands.
• Requires the FWS Director to publish and annually update a certified nonlead ammunition list.
• Exempts law enforcement, military on duty, and government officials doing non-wildlife work.
• Sets civil fines up to $500 for first offense, $1,000-$5,000 for repeats.

Why should I care?

Supporters say lead is a proven neurotoxin already banned in paint and gas, and poisons eagles, condors, and people eating game. Critics argue nonlead ammo costs more, restricts hunting traditions, and FWS lacks authority to regulate hunters this broadly. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.