Wetlands Conservation and Access Improvement Act of 2025
Summary
The Wetlands Conservation and Access Improvement Act of 2025 amends the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act. It changes the date when interest on obligations held in the Federal aid to wildlife restoration fund becomes available for apportionment from the beginning of fiscal year 2026 to the beginning of fiscal year 2033. The bill was passed by the House of Representatives on July 14, 2025, and received in the Senate on July 15, 2025, where it was referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this act is to delay the availability of interest earned on the Federal aid to wildlife restoration fund for apportionment by seven years. This could impact the funding available for state wildlife conservation and restoration projects in the short term. However, it may allow for greater accumulation of funds over a longer period, potentially leading to increased funding in the future.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially increased funding for wildlife restoration in the long term due to greater accumulation of interest.
- Continued support for state wildlife conservation efforts through the Pittman-Robertson Act.
- Focus on wetlands conservation, which benefits biodiversity and ecosystem services.
- May improve access to outdoor recreational opportunities related to wildlife.
- Supports the goals of wildlife management and habitat preservation.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Delayed availability of funds for wildlife restoration projects in the short term (until 2033).
- Potential for reduced funding for immediate conservation needs.
- Possible negative impact on state wildlife agencies reliant on these funds.
- Uncertainty regarding the actual increase in long-term funding.
- The delay could hinder timely responses to emerging environmental challenges.
Constitutional Alignment
This act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the U.S. Constitution (Preamble), as it aims to promote wildlife restoration and conservation, which can be considered beneficial to the general welfare. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 grants Congress the power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. The Pittman-Robertson Act, which this act amends, falls under this power as it relates to the use of excise taxes on firearms and ammunition for wildlife conservation.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).