Recreational shooting ranges created on federal lands under Moore-sponsored bill

U.S. Rep. Blake Moore (R-UT) recently sponsored a bipartisan bill to promote and expand access to recreational target shooting practice in National Forests across the country.

“This legislation ensures more responsible access to recreational shooting opportunities for sportsmen and women throughout the country,” Rep. Moore said. “Americans love spending time outdoors, and expanding our ability to recreate on and enjoy our public lands is critical.”

The Range Access Act, H.R. 1614, which is cosponsored by U.S. Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), would facilitate the creation of designated shooting ranges on National Forest System land and public land administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for the public to use for recreational target shooting, according to the bill’s text.  

If enacted, H.R. 1614 would require the U.S. Forest Service and the BLM to ensure that each National Forest and BLM district has at least one designated public recreational shooting range that does not require a user fee, “thus promoting wildlife conservation efforts and supporting local economies,” according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers. 

The bill would enhance federal funding that flows toward state wildlife and fish management agencies under the Pittman-Robertson Act, an excise tax levied on the purchase of ammunition, firearms, and archery equipment that funds conservation programs, the summary says, noting that since being enacted in 1937, more than $15 billion has been transferred to states under the law. 

“Not only will this bill make it easier to recreate, but it will also enhance funding for wildlife conservation programs and support local economies,” Rep. Moore said on March 17. “I am thrilled to reintroduce this legislation for the 118th Congress with my good friend Congressman Panetta. We will work hard to push this through the legislative process.”

The legislation is supported by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, the Boone and Crockett Club, Delta Waterfowl, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, the Mule Deer Foundation, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the Wild Sheep Foundation, Safari Club International, the Sportsmen’s Alliance, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, and Ducks Unlimited.

“Sportsmen and women too often lack dedicated, accessible shooting ranges on our public lands where they can safely enjoy the great outdoors,” said Rep. Panetta. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation alongside Rep. Moore to ensure our National Forests and BLM District have at least one designated recreational shooting range, free of charge. Doing so will promote safety, recreational opportunities, and the continued conservation of our environment.”