Benishek Applauds "Sportsman Heritage Act"

WASHINGTON, DC: Congressman Dan Benishek (MI-01) applauds the passage of the “Sportsman Heritage Act” in the House Committee on Natural Resources. The legislation reaffirms that fishing, hunting, and shooting are important and traditional activities that should continue on public lands.

“I support this legislation because it ensures that our children and grandchildren are able to enjoy hunting and fishing on federal lands now and in the future. I am pleased the Committee on Natural Resources has passed this measure and moved it one step closer to becoming law,” said Dr. Benishek, an avid outdoorsman and lifelong resident of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Title I of the legislation contains the “Recreational Fishing and Hunting Heritage and Opportunities Act,” which Dr. Benishek authored on September 8, 2011. Dr. Benishek’s bill would create an “open until closed” policy for sportsmen’s use of federal land and would block threats from environmentalist groups that seek to limit hunting, fishing and shooting on America’s federal properties.

“From Ontonagon to Escanaba to Alpena, hunters and anglers have enjoyed the blessings of Northern Michigan’s great outdoors for generations. This legislation continues that proud tradition and will protect the rights of First District sportsmen to access federal lands,” added Dr. Benishek, who serves on the House Committee on Natural Resources.

Dr. Benishek’s portion of the bill has received 54 cosponsorships in the House of Representatives. The legislation is supported by organizations such as the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance, National Rifle Association, Safari Club International, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, and the American Sportfishing Association.