Migratory Bird Framework and Hunting Opportunities for Veterans Act

Floor Speech

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Mr. Speaker, as the gentleman mentioned, this bill amends the Migratory Bird Treaty Act to establish special duck hunting days for youth and veterans. While I generally support expanding hunting opportunities for youth and veterans, it is important that we do it in a way that does not detract from management decisions based on sound science that produces the best outcomes for wildlife populations.

This year marked the 100th anniversary of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, a law which codified our Nation's commitment to honor international treaties that protect migratory bird populations. It is important to remember that prior to its passage, birds like the snowy egret and wood duck were plummeting towards extinction due to market hunting and unregulated commercial trade in bird feathers.

Thanks to the protections afforded by the MBTA, these birds and many others have recovered from the brink of extinction, while maintaining opportunities for hunters to participate in waterfowl hunting through science-based management and population assessments.

Congress has an obligation to ensure that the Secretary of the Interior retains the authority to determine when hunting of migratory game birds can take place in the United States. While the flyway councils play a critical role in developing regulations, establishing the framework for migratory bird management is a Federal responsibility that should be done in consultation with flyway councils.

I do want to thank Chairman Bishop for working with our staff to make modest changes to the bill to address some of our concerns. We hope to continue working with our colleagues in the Senate to make further refinements and ensure that this bill does not move us forward in a way that departs from sound, science-based management.

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