President Trump Signs Executive Orders Bolstering Hunting and Angling Access

President Donald J. Trump signed two executive orders last night aimed at expanding access for American hunters and anglers and revitalizing the nation's outdoor recreation sector. The orders are intended to cut red tape and remove restrictions previously imposed by prior administrations.

The outdoor recreation industry generates over $1.2 trillion annually and supports more than 5 million jobs. Industry leaders and stakeholders nationwide have praised the President's actions for restoring access to federal lands and boosting the outdoor economy while conserving natural resources.

According to a statement from Secretary Doug Burgum, the administration is committed to supporting sportsmen, who he described as "among our greatest conservationists." The Department of the Interior will, under the President's direction, expand hunting access, promote habitat management, improve migratory bird hunting authorizations, encourage Sunday hunting, and support hunter education and youth and veteran programs.

Senator Tom Cotton stated, "Hunting is an important part of Arkansas’s culture and economy. Thankful President Trump is prioritizing America’s hunting heritage for future generations."

Representative Bruce Westerman called the executive orders "generational victories for America’s sportsmen and women," noting they expand access, eliminate burdensome regulations, and invest in future generations. He added that he had advanced legislation on many of these policies through the Natural Resources Committee, including the reauthorization of the Great American Outdoors Act.

Representative August Pfluger commented that for years, access to public lands and waters had been made more difficult. He said the executive order expands wildlife access, rolls back "overreaching Biden-era restrictions like the lead ammunition mandates," and opens more opportunities for the next generation of sportsmen.

The National Rifle Association expressed pride in standing with the President and applauded the executive orders for protecting "the storied tradition of American outdoorsmanship."

Jeff Angers, President and CEO of the Center for Sportfish Policy, described the order as a "historic recognition" for American anglers and coastal communities, stating it builds on conservation gains and creates a path for more reliable access and opportunity in America's oceans.

Joe Bartozzi, President and CEO of the National Shooting Sports Foundation, stated the executive order demonstrates the administration stands with America's sportsmen and women, calling it a "tremendous victory" for hunting heritage. He noted the organization has long championed protecting the right to use traditional ammunition, accessing public lands, and increasing opportunities for Sunday hunting.