Hunting Lands Protected in Arkansas

(FAIRFAX, VA) -- After solid support from the National Rifle Association (NRA) and the Legislature, Governor Mike Huckabee signed SB 1080, the No-Net-Loss of public hunting lands bill. This legislation protects the public hunting lands of Arkansas for future generations. All hunters should praise the bill’s sponsor, Senator Steve Higginbothom, for his work on this effort.

"This No-Net-Loss legislation guarantees that Arkansas hunters will always have the same amount of public hunting land available," said Chris W. Cox, NRA’s chief lobbyist. "The passage of this bill is part of NRA`s nationwide commitment to safeguarding America`s hunting lands. Protection of America`s public hunting lands is critical to the continuation and growth of our proud hunting heritage.

"Anti-hunting groups have long fought to dismantle public hunting land in a backdoor effort to eradicate America’s sporting heritage," added Cox. "This law guarantees that the hunters of tomorrow will enjoy the traditions and learn the skills their parents and grandparents mastered in the woods and waters of Arkansas."

This year, NRA actively supported No-Net-Loss legislation in several states including Oregon, West Virginia and Georgia. NRA also supported expanding public hunting and shooting opportunities in Virginia, West Virginia and Wyoming.

"Hunting is a fundamental element of conservation and a vital asset to the economy. Saving this important heritage not only benefits sportsmen and the environment, but business owners as well.

That’s why NRA will continue to fight for similar hunting protection and conservation measures in all fifty states," concluded Cox.

--nra--

The National Rifle Association is the nation’s leader in protecting the right to hunt for all law-abiding Americans. Along with approximately 17 million American hunters and many national conservation organizations, NRA is working to preserve the American hunting tradition for future generations. Hunters and sportsmen play a pivotal role in America’s economy and society, and have been leaders in promoting wildlife management and conservation. Since 1939, hunters and shooters have paid over $4 billion in excise taxes on sporting equipment. Hunters and fishermen fund nearly 75% of the annual income for all 50 state conservation agencies. And, hunters contribute $21 billion to the American economy each year.